The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has defended the recent hike in mobile internet package prices, stating that the increase is mainly due to inflation and rising operational costs faced by telecom operators.
PTA’s Director General of Commercial Affairs, Adil Umar Khalil, told SAMAA that inflation and other economic pressures have pushed telecom companies to revise their internet tariffs.
He explained that costs of maintaining infrastructure and providing services have risen significantly in recent months.
Pakistan’s data rates remain competitive
Despite the increase, Khalil noted that internet data prices in Pakistan are still relatively low compared to many other countries. “Even with revised packages, Pakistan continues to offer some of the most affordable mobile internet rates in the region,” he added.
The PTA also expressed optimism that mobile internet services will improve in the future with upcoming spectrum auctions and better right-of-way regulations. These measures are expected to enhance connectivity, expand coverage, and potentially stabilize pricing.
