The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to issue official determinations on the operations of Long Distance and International (LDI) companies, amid unresolved license renewals and outstanding dues totaling Rs. 80 billion.
The decision is expected between July and August 2025.
PTA has completed a series of hearings with LDI operators, many of which continue operations despite non-renewal of licenses. These hearings, held from April to May, focused on Rs. 24 billion in unpaid principal amounts and Rs. 56 billion in late payment surcharges. No concrete breakthrough was achieved during the proceedings, according to official sources.
Documents reveal that five out of nine key LDI companies agreed to pay their Rs. 8.2 billion principal dues in installments, while four others declined any repayment plan. Four of the 13 total LDI operators had their licenses renewed in 2024, while the licenses of seven companies expired the same year. The remaining two licenses will expire in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
LDI operators also owe Access Promotion Contribution (APC) charges to the Universal Service Fund (USF), which remain unpaid for several years. Several companies have obtained stay orders from courts to delay payments, further complicating regulatory enforcement.
The Ministry of IT attempted to resolve the matter through negotiations, with the Federal Minister for IT meeting LDI company representatives in May. However, PTA was not provided with minutes of the meeting.
Relying on official correspondence and court rulings, PTA finalized hearings and is now set to issue authoritative orders on dues recovery and future operations of the defaulting companies.