Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication to expedite work on the long-awaited Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework, a key policy initiative designed to open up Pakistan’s telecom market to new investors and enhance sectoral growth, sources confirmed.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the Prime Minister was briefed on the framework during a pre-cabinet session, where he instructed the ministry to fast-track the process and present the proposal for final approval. However, more than a year later, the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication has yet to finalize or approve the MVNO policy — a delay that continues to hinder the upcoming spectrum auction and broader telecom reform efforts.
The MVNO framework aims to introduce new players into Pakistan’s mobile ecosystem by allowing smaller companies to offer mobile and digital services under their own brand names, without owning physical spectrum. This model has been successfully implemented in various global markets to drive competition, innovation, and consumer choice.
Under the proposed policy, MVNOs will be granted 15-year licenses, enabling them to operate as independent service providers while partnering with existing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). The initial nationwide license fee is set at $140,000, payable in Pakistani rupees at the National Bank of Pakistan’s telegraphic transfer rate on the day before payment.
MVNOs and their parent MNOs will be required to pay annual regulatory fees, including contributions to the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Research & Development (R&D) fund, based on their combined annual gross revenue. However, certain inter-operator costs and PTA-mandated payments will be deductible to ensure fair accounting treatment.
Each MVNO will be required to maintain service quality, operate customer care centers, and ensure compliance with Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) performance benchmarks. Additionally, they must establish a 24/7 nationwide helpline and comply with national security obligations, including lawful interception, data management, and SIM activation protocols.
The proposed policy also mandates that MVNOs adhere to the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to curb the use of stolen or unregistered devices. Parent MNOs, meanwhile, will be prohibited from altering or discontinuing service to MVNOs without PTA approval.
According to the draft framework, if an MVNO’s agreement with its MNO is terminated before the 15-year license period ends, and the MVNO fails to secure a new partnership, its license will be suspended until a new valid agreement is filed with PTA.
Despite the clear benefits of increased market diversity and consumer choice, bureaucratic delays have kept the MVNO framework on hold since its initial submission by PTA. Analysts argue that this hesitation undermines Pakistan’s ambitions to modernize its digital infrastructure and attract foreign investment in telecom innovation.
Industry experts believe the framework could reshape Pakistan’s telecom landscape, making it easier for niche and regional operators to introduce specialized services such as digital banking, IoT-based connectivity, and affordable mobile data plans for underserved communities.