Consultations between the Ministry of IT, PTA, and telecom operators have concluded regarding the installment-based smartphone program.
Sources say all stakeholders have agreed on a framework for providing smartphones on easy installments, and the IT Ministry has prepared a policy directive.
The “Smartphone for All” initiative was originally announced in November 2022.
Operators had requested solutions for financial risks and legal complexities. It was agreed that mobile phones and telecom services registered under defaulting users’ CNICs would be blocked, with PTA responsible for blocking phones in case of default.
However, proposals to block all financial services of defaulters, including bank accounts and credit cards, were rejected by the government. Authorities clarified that such financial restrictions fall under the jurisdiction of the State Bank.
A representative of a Chinese telecom operator said that despite some proposals not being approved, operators will not obstruct the program. Once the policy directive is issued, all operators will implement it, and defaulting users will be unable to access services from other operators.
The representative added that discussions have already begun with some mobile phone manufacturers to support the initiative. The final timing for the directive’s issuance will depend on the Ministry of IT.
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