The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced mandatory registration of Internet of Things (IoT) gateways and enforced strict data localisation requirements under its revised regulatory framework.
According to the updated Regulatory Framework for Short Range Devices (SRD) and Terrestrial Internet of Things (IoT) Services v1.4, all Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) licensees are required to register each IoT gateway with the Authority.
The framework bars the storage of IoT data outside Pakistan without prior approval from PTA and empowers the regulator to order immediate suspension of IoT services on national security grounds.
The revised framework strengthens oversight of long-range IoT deployments by imposing enhanced compliance obligations on LPWAN operators. Licensees must submit updated lists of operational gateways on a bi-annual basis and ensure that backend traffic generated through LPWAN networks is routed via PTA-licensed Local Access Providers.
It also specifies that IoT networks operating in shared spectrum will function strictly on a secondary, non-interference, and non-protection basis.
Under the new rules, LPWAN licenses will be issued under the Class Value-Added Services (CVAS) regime for a five-year period, renewable in line with federal government policy. License holders are required to commence services within one year of license issuance, failing which the license will be automatically cancelled. Existing LPWAN licensees have also been directed to obtain commencement certificates within one year of the issuance of the revised framework.
PTA has clarified that Cellular Mobile Operators and Local Loop licensees will not require a separate LPWAN license to offer IoT services in designated LPWAN bands, though prior approval from the Authority will remain mandatory. Mission-critical IoT services, including those related to public safety, utilities, and transport, will be permitted only through exclusively assigned or licensed frequency bands.
The framework also supports research and innovation by allowing academia, government bodies, companies, and law enforcement agencies to conduct non-commercial IoT test and trial activities for up to six months without obtaining an LPWAN license.
These trials are limited to ten devices per model and will remain subject to inspection by PTA and the Frequency Allocation Board.
