PTA issues 47 district-level internet licences

Initiative will expand broadband infrastructure, prop up digital economy

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued 47 district-level Class Licences for internet services this year as part of its efforts to expand broadband infrastructure across the country.

According to PTA documents, the first district-level internet licence was issued in February this year. During March, the authority granted 12 new district-level licences, followed by 14 licences in May and a record 20 licences in June.

The documents show that Lahore received the highest number of internet Class Licences, at seven, while Sargodha ranked second in terms of district-level licence applications.

Similarly, four licences each were granted in Faisalabad and Islamabad. The PTA also issued licences for South Waziristan and Lower Chitral.

According to the authority, the new licences are expected to enhance competition in the internet services market and improve last-mile connectivity for consumers. The licensing initiative will also promote digital connectivity in rural and underserved areas.

In addition, the PTA said the new licences would encourage local investment, create employment opportunities and contribute to the growth of Pakistan's digital economy.

PTA commenced the process of granting Class Licences for the provision of internet services at the district level at the beginning of 2026 in an attempt to encourage local entrepreneurship and enhance broadband penetration across Pakistan.

The Class Licence is being issued for a period of 10 years. Applicants will be required to pay a one-time initial licence fee of Rs300,000. An annual licence fee of Rs100,000 for the first year shall be payable along with the initial fee before the licence becomes effective.

The annual licence fee for subsequent years shall be payable in advance and will be subject to an annual increase of 10%.