PTA Set to Decide Fate of LDI Operators Amid Rs. 80 Billion in Outstanding Dues
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to issue formal decisions on the operations of Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom operators, as the industry faces unresolved license renewals and unpaid dues totaling Rs. 80 billion.
PTA Hearings Conclude, Decision Expected Soon
According to official sources, the PTA conducted a series of regulatory hearings with LDI operators between April and May 2025. Despite these efforts, no major breakthroughs were achieved in resolving outstanding payments, which include:
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Rs. 24 billion in principal dues
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Rs. 56 billion in late payment surcharges
The final determinations are expected to be announced between July and August 2025.
Partial Payment Plans and License Status
Out of the 13 licensed LDI companies:
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5 operators agreed to pay Rs. 8.2 billion in installments
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4 companies rejected any repayment plan
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4 companies had their licenses renewed in 2024
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7 licenses expired in 2024 and remain unrenewed
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The remaining 2 licenses will expire in 2025 and 2026, respectively
Unpaid APC Charges and Legal Complications
LDI companies are also behind on their Access Promotion Contribution (APC) payments to the Universal Service Fund (USF). These charges have remained unpaid for several years, with some operators obtaining court stay orders to delay or suspend payment obligations, complicating regulatory enforcement.
Ministry of IT Interventions
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication attempted to mediate, with the Federal Minister for IT holding meetings with LDI representatives in May. However, the PTA reportedly did not receive formal minutes from these discussions, limiting their influence on the decision-making process.
PTA’s Final Decision Imminent
Relying on court rulings and formal communications, the PTA has concluded its review hearings and is now poised to release authoritative decisions on:
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Recovery of unpaid dues
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The future licensing and operational status of non-compliant LDI companies
The decisions are likely to shape the future of Pakistan’s LDI sector and could have broader implications for the country’s telecom and digital infrastructure landscape.
