The federal cabinet has approved the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) framework.
According to details, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority had forwarded the draft framework to the Ministry of IT after preparing it last year. The approval was granted on a summary submitted by the Ministry of IT.
Under the framework, a 15-year licence for MVNOs has been introduced, which will be renewable. A one-time initial fee of US$140,000 has been fixed for nationwide operations.
MVNOs will operate by using the networks of existing mobile operators. They will be authorised to introduce services in any city under their own brands.
Each MVNO will be required to establish at least one customer care centre in every active city. MVNOs will pay annual regulatory dues on a shared revenue basis with parent mobile network operators.
MVNOs will be required to maintain service quality standards and establish a helpline. Compliance with national security regulations, lawful interception requirements and SIM management protocols will also be mandatory.
Sources said the approval of MVNOs would support the achievement of targets linked to the 5G spectrum auction. The initiative is expected to increase investment and provide smaller players with an opportunity to enter the telecom market.
