The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has barred telecom operators from raising mobile phone package prices on a monthly basis following a rise in consumer complaints about frequent tariff hikes.
In an official directive to telecom companies, the regulator stated that mobile package prices can now only be revised quarterly instead of monthly. This measure is intended to protect consumers from constant price increases while keeping the telecom market stable.
Officials said that telecom companies had been increasing the cost of call, SMS, and data packages almost every month, prompting complaints from users nationwide. Under the new rules, operators will only be able to revise package prices after reviewing the previous year’s tariffs.
The authority also indicated that price hikes will generally be limited to around 10 to 20 percent compared to the previous year, allowing companies to cover operational costs while keeping services affordable for consumers.
PTA has implemented the Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025, requiring telecom companies to obtain prior approval before introducing new packages or raising existing tariffs. Operators cannot launch new offers or change prices without regulatory clearance.
Officials emphasized that the authority is responsible for both consumer protection and ensuring stability in the telecom sector. They added that Pakistan’s average revenue per user remains among the lowest in the region but is expected to improve gradually with the rollout of next-generation services and future spectrum developments.