PTA renews PTCL’s license for next 25 years

PTA renews PTCL’s license for next 25 years

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially renewed the operational license of the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) for the next 25 years.

This significant development comes after PTCL’s business operation license expired on December 31, 2020, prompting a comprehensive renewal process that has now concluded.

In an official communication to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), PTCL announced that the integrated telecom license for fixed-line telecom services was successfully renewed by PTA on January 13, 2021. This renewal ensures the continuation of PTCL’s operations and services in the telecommunications sector for an extended period, fostering stability and certainty in the industry.

“The PTA has renewed the integrated telecom license of PTCL for the next twenty-five years effective from January 01, 2021,” stated PTCL in its communication to the PSX.

The integrated license, initially issued for 25 years effective from January 01, 1996, remained valid until December 31, 2020. Consequently, the renewal became a necessity, ensuring uninterrupted services and compliance with regulatory requirements. The renewal process was initiated by PTCL on June 29, 2018, a substantial 30 months before the expiration of the original license.

Responding affirmatively to PTCL’s renewal request, the PTA conveyed its decision through a letter dated October 01, 2018, assuring PTCL that its license would be renewed in accordance with the prevailing government policy at the time of renewal.

“To ensure business continuity and operations, PTCL sought a permanent injunction on December 18, 2020, from the Sindh High Court at Karachi by filing Suit No. 2081/2020. In this suit, PTA is restrained from taking any adverse action against PTCL upon the expiry of the license on December 31, 2020. Additionally, PTA is barred from interfering in PTCL’s business operations and the provision of services based on the license,” highlighted the official communication.

The renewal of PTCL’s license is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the regulatory authorities and the telecommunications industry to maintain the stability and reliability of telecom services in Pakistan. The 25-year extension provides PTCL with the strategic advantage of long-term planning and investments, contributing to the overall growth and development of the telecommunications sector.

The telecommunications landscape is a critical component of Pakistan’s infrastructure, impacting businesses, individuals, and the broader economy. With the license renewal, PTCL can continue to play a pivotal role in connecting communities, driving innovation, and supporting the nation’s digital aspirations. The successful renewal underscores the commitment of both PTCL and the regulatory authorities to the sustained advancement of Pakistan’s telecommunications ecosystem.