In a bid to strengthen the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem in Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has initiated a public consultation process aimed at revising its Regulatory Framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) & Terrestrial IoT.

The move follows concerns over the underperformance of IoT Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) licensees despite the issuance of 23 licenses since 2022.

The original framework was introduced to promote IoT services using both unlicensed/shared spectrum bands and exclusively assigned frequencies. However, PTA notes that the majority of LPWAN license holders have failed to make a meaningful impact, with only five operators currently active—and even those operating on a limited scale.

According to data compiled through field surveys and inspections:

• 5 licensees are operational, but with small networks and limited scope.

• 3 licensees have deployed gateways for testing purposes.

• The remaining licensees have shown no operational activity.

According to PTA, the lack of progress is due to the flexible nature of the existing licensing terms, which do not include critical obligations such as:

• Commencement certificates,

• Roll-out obligations, and

• Financial assurance instruments (AAAs).

To address these gaps, PTA is now seeking stakeholder input on proposed modifications that aim to:

• Set a clear one-year timeline for licensees to commence operations,

• Align initial license fees with existing CVAS license fees (Rs. 300,000),

• Include gateway deployment and related financial obligations in the license,

• Mandate financial guarantees (AAAs) to ensure licensee viability,

• Revoke licenses of non-operational entities unless they begin services within six months.

The IoT LPWAN License was designed to promote smart IoT services, so PTA kept the terms flexible—without requirements like rollout deadlines, commencement certificates, or financial guarantees. However, this has led to poor implementation.

PTA is now reviewing these terms, and stakeholders have until June 20 to submit their feedback. Need expert guidance on Pakistan’s latest PTA regulatory updates? Contact us at info@nanotechsol.com for reliable support.