On May 30, 2025, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) released a consultation paper proposing modifications to the “Regulatory Framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) & Terrestrial Internet of Things (IoT).” This framework governs how IoT services are licensed and operated, particularly in low-power, shared spectrum bands. The proposed updates aim to strengthen license enforcement, ensure service rollout, and limit access to serious and capable operators.
Background and Framework Objectives
The current framework was originally developed to support the growth of IoT networks in Pakistan using shared or unlicensed frequency bands, with an option for licensed spectrum use. However, its main focus was on unlicensed LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) deployments operating on a non-interference, non-protection basis. Despite issuing 23 licenses since 2022, the PTA has observed low operational engagement among licensees.
A recent assessment by PTA revealed that:
Only 5 licensees are operational, and even these operate on a limited scale.
3 others have conducted only testing with deployed gateways.
The majority of license holders remain non-operational.
PTA attributes this underperformance to overly lenient license terms, which currently lack commencement certificate requirements, mandatory network rollout obligation and financial guarantees.
Proposed Reforms Under Consultation
To address these gaps, the PTA is soliciting stakeholder feedback on several proposed regulatory changes:
Imposing a one-year deadline for licensees to obtain a commencement certificate
Aligning the initial licensing fee with that of the CVAS (Rs. 300,000 for nationwide coverage)
Including the number of deployed gateways and their associated costs in license terms
Requiring financial guarantees (AAAs) to assess licensee viability
Terminating licenses of non-operational entities unless they become active within six months
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Pakistan
Certification Body: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: In-Country Testing
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