PM Shehbaz Accelerates Rollout of Mobile Virtual Network Operators in Pakistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) to expedite the launch of the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework, marking a major step forward for Pakistan’s telecom sector. The move is expected to enhance competition, attract foreign investment, and bring new innovation to Pakistan’s rapidly expanding digital economy.

The directive came during a pre-cabinet policy briefing held in Islamabad, where the Prime Minister was presented with updates on the long-delayed MVNO plan. Stressing the need for immediate action, PM Shehbaz urged the ministry to finalize the framework and submit it to the federal cabinet for approval without further delay.

According to officials, the new policy will allow Mobile Virtual Network Operators in Pakistan to operate under their own brand names without owning radio spectrum — a model already successful in advanced telecom markets such as Europe and the Middle East.

A Long-Awaited Reform Gains Pace

The MVNO rollout 2025 has been one of Pakistan’s most anticipated telecom reforms. Originally drafted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the framework has been pending approval for nearly a year. The proposal outlines how companies can enter the mobile service market by leasing network capacity from existing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

By removing high-cost entry barriers, the policy aims to empower smaller firms, tech startups, and international investors to launch specialized telecom services for niche markets.

According to a senior MoITT official, this reform is central to PM Shehbaz’s digital policy, which envisions a more open and competitive telecom ecosystem. “The Prime Minister wants Pakistan to catch up with the global pace of digital transformation,” the official said. “The MVNO framework will make that possible by encouraging innovation, expanding connectivity, and creating a level playing field for all.”

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How MVNOs Will Work in Pakistan

Under the new policy, Mobile Virtual Network Operators in Pakistan will operate as independent telecom providers using the infrastructure of licensed MNOs such as Jazz, Telenor, Zong, and Ufone.

These virtual operators will receive 15-year licenses from the PTA, allowing them to market mobile and data services under their own brand identities. The nationwide MVNO license fee has been set at $140,000, payable in Pakistani rupees at the National Bank of Pakistan’s exchange rate.

This structure aims to attract both local entrepreneurs and global telecom players seeking cost-efficient market entry. Each MVNO will be required to establish customer service centers, run a 24/7 helpline, and meet the PTA’s quality-of-service benchmarks to ensure reliable and consumer-friendly operations.

Regulatory Safeguards and Compliance

The PTA has emphasized strong governance to maintain market stability and consumer trust. Both MVNOs and their parent MNOs will be required to pay annual regulatory fees and contribute to the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Research and Development Fund (R&D Fund) based on their annual revenues.

The framework also enforces several critical obligations:

• MVNOs must comply with lawful interception, national security, and SIM registration requirements.
• Both MVNOs and MNOs must notify the PTA at least three months before discontinuing services.
• Parent MNOs cannot unilaterally terminate agreements or block MVNO access without PTA approval.
• All entities must comply with the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to prevent phone smuggling and misuse.

These safeguards are designed to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and prevent market abuse, creating a regulatory environment aligned with international telecom standards.

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Driving Competition and Investment in Telecom

Industry analysts are calling this initiative a game-changer for Pakistan’s telecom sector. With over 195 million mobile users and one of the fastest-growing data consumption rates in South Asia, the market is ripe for expansion.

The MVNO model will give consumers greater service choices, encourage price competition, and push existing operators to improve network quality. Smaller firms will now be able to offer tailored data packages, fintech integration, and digital lifestyle services that cater to specific demographics such as students, freelancers, and SMEs.

Moreover, the introduction of MVNOs is expected to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into Pakistan’s telecom ecosystem. International brands that already operate MVNOs in the Middle East and Europe have shown interest in entering the Pakistani market once the framework is officially launched.

A Key Step Toward Digital Pakistan

The acceleration of this initiative fits squarely within PM Shehbaz’s digital policy, which focuses on expanding digital connectivity in Pakistan, improving e-governance, and boosting the country’s IT exports.

The Prime Minister believes that modern telecom infrastructure is the foundation of Pakistan’s future economy. “Telecom reform is not just about technology — it’s about empowerment,” he stated during a cabinet meeting earlier this year. “We want every Pakistani to have equal access to digital tools, services, and opportunities.”

By facilitating MVNO operations, the government aims to extend coverage to remote areas, enhance 4G and 5G penetration, and strengthen Pakistan’s digital resilience.

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Implementation Timeline and Next Steps

Officials expect the MVNO rollout 2025 to move into its execution phase shortly after cabinet approval, potentially by early 2026. The PTA will begin accepting license applications once the framework is officially notified.

The authority will also publish a compliance manual outlining technical and operational requirements, ensuring new entrants adhere to best practices from day one.

Industry experts predict that within two years of launch, Pakistan could see five to seven active MVNOs, each targeting different market segments — from low-cost prepaid users to premium digital service customers.

Conclusion

PM Shehbaz accelerates rollout of Mobile Virtual Network Operators in Pakistan, taking a decisive step toward opening the telecom market to innovation, investment, and consumer choice. The move represents a bold push to modernize Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure and strengthen its position as a digital hub in South Asia.

With a focus on regulatory clarity, investor transparency, and public benefit, the MVNO policy could reshape the country’s digital economy — bridging the gap between connectivity and opportunity for millions of Pakistanis.