The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued strict instructions to all mobile operators that they must obtain explicit prior consent from subscribers before activating any Value-Added Services (VAS) packages, amid growing concerns over unauthorised deductions.
In a clarification issued on Sunday, the regulator advised consumers to regularly check and manage their active subscriptions through their respective mobile operator’s official applications to avoid unwanted charges.
The statement comes in response to concerns raised on social media regarding mobile tariffs, service quality and unauthorised deductions, reports news website ProPakistani. PTA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring transparency in the telecom sector.
To create a structured and fair tariff framework, PTA has notified the Mobile Tariff Regulations, 2025. Under these regulations, operators with Significant Market Power (SMP) are strictly required to obtain prior approval from PTA for any introduction or revision of tariffs. Other operators may determine their tariffs based on business considerations, but remain subject to PTA’s right to intervene if tariffs are found to be detrimental to consumer interests.
While PTA acts as a guardian of consumer interests, it also recognises that sustainable market conditions are necessary, says the PTA. It is important to note that Pakistan continues to have one of the lowest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and most affordable mobile data prices in the region, it says.
All mobile operators have been strictly directed to obtain explicit, prior consent from subscribers before activating any Value-Added Services. Consumers are encouraged to regularly check and manage their active subscriptions through their respective mobile operator’s official application.
PTA is proactively working to enhance service quality. A key step in this direction is the upcoming spectrum auction planned for March 2025. This auction will require substantial investment from mobile operators to acquire new spectrum and deploy advanced network infrastructure. This will directly lead to measurable improvements in network quality, coverage, and data speeds for consumers across the country.
PTA says that it “remains dedicated to fostering a transparent and fair regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with the sustainable investment required for the long-term development of Pakistan’s telecom sector”.
