Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication to expedite finalization of the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework to accelerate telecom sector growth and attract fresh investment.
BR reported, citing official sources, the prime minister asked the ministry to complete pending work and present the framework for cabinet approval. Nearly a year has passed since the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) submitted the draft MVNO framework, but the ministry has yet to finalise it despite its relevance to the upcoming spectrum auction.
The MVNO framework aims to expand competition in the telecom sector by allowing smaller companies to operate mobile services under their own brand names without owning spectrum. PTA’s draft proposes 15-year renewable licenses, with a nationwide license fee of USD 140,000, payable in rupees at the prevailing National Bank of Pakistan Telegraphic Transfer rate.
Licensed MVNOs will be required to pay annual regulatory fees, including contributions to the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Research & Development (R&D) fund, calculated on total gross revenue from joint services with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Costs paid by MNOs to MVNOs will not qualify as deductible expenses.
If an MVNO’s agreement with its parent MNO is terminated before the end of the license period and a replacement deal is not signed, the license will be suspended until a new agreement is submitted to the PTA.
The framework allows MNOs to partner with multiple MVNOs, with agreements defining operational scope and responsibilities. Each MVNO must maintain customer service centres in operational cities and provide a 24/7 helpline.
Additionally, MVNOs must comply with national security protocols, including lawful interception and SIM registration systems, and follow the PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS). Parent MNOs will be required to ensure uninterrupted service continuity for MVNOs and cannot alter or discontinue operations without PTA approval.
The policy aligns with Clause 9.11.1 of the Telecommunications Policy 2015, which authorizes MVNO operations in Pakistan.Â
The PM has directed that the framework be finalised without delay to ensure it complements the upcoming spectrum auction and supports digital growth objectives.
