The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has initiated a significant enforcement drive against several Long Distance and International (LDI) operators, targeting over Rs80 billion in unpaid dues related to Access Promotion Contribution (APC) charges owed to the Universal Service Fund (USF).
In a series of determination and enforcement orders issued under Section 23 of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-Organization) Act, 1996, the PTA has directed six operators to clear their dues within 30 days or face further penalties and legal action. These orders mark a firm regulatory response to chronic non-compliance in Pakistan’s telecom sector.
Breakdown of Outstanding Liabilities
The total unpaid amount comprises Rs24 billion in principal and Rs56 billion in Late Payment Additional Fee (LPAF). Despite multiple hearings conducted between April and May 2025, no settlements were reached. Some operators chose not to cooperate, while others relied on court-issued stay orders to delay proceedings.
Among the operators named in the PTA’s orders:
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REDtone Telecommunications has been ordered to pay Rs14.31 billion
(Principal: Rs4.10B + LPAF: Rs10.21B) -
Worldcall Telecom Ltd must pay Rs5.69 billion
(Principal: Rs1.77B + LPAF: Rs3.92B) -
Telecard Ltd owes Rs4.07 billion
(Principal: Rs1.29B + LPAF: Rs2.77B) -
Circle Net Communications has a liability of Rs5.9 billion
(Principal: Rs1.64B + LPAF: Rs4.25B) -
Multinet Pakistan has been served with a demand of Rs1.41 billion
(Principal: Rs605M + LPAF: Rs808M) -
A leading unnamed LDI operator was asked to pay Rs6.25 billion
(Principal: Rs2.0B + LPAF: Rs4.24B)
Each company has received a designated hearing date, and failure to comply will invite legal repercussions including license cancellation or suspension of operations.
Regulatory Pressure Mounts Amid Delays and Litigation
Out of 13 active LDI operators, four have already cleared their dues, and five more have accepted installment plans covering a combined Rs8.2 billion. However, four operators have rejected any settlement, escalating regulatory tensions.
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As of mid-2025, seven LDI licenses have expired, with only four renewals completed in 2024. Two more licenses are due to expire in 2025 and 2026, further complicating compliance efforts.
The PTA’s aggressive posture comes after repeated failed reconciliation attempts by the Ministry of IT and Telecom. Ongoing litigation and active stay orders have delayed enforcement, but the PTA is now asserting its legal mandate to ensure financial accountability and fair telecom operations in the country.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
The APC charges are a critical funding source for the Universal Service Fund, which is designed to support telecom infrastructure and connectivity in underserved areas of Pakistan. Non-payment of these contributions undermines the USF’s mission and stalls progress in bridging the digital divide.
The telecom industry in Pakistan has long grappled with issues of license renewals, regulatory compliance, and dues recovery. PTA’s current enforcement drive may set a precedent for tighter oversight and more responsible financial practices in the sector.
Further Site Links:Â PTA, and USF.
