PTA Stops Monthly Increase in Mobile Phone Package Prices

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has stopped telecom operators from increasing mobile phone package prices on a monthly basis following a surge in consumer complaints about frequent tariff hikes.

In a formal directive issued to telecom companies, the regulator said mobile package prices can now be revised only on a quarterly basis instead of monthly. The move aims to protect consumers from frequent price increases while maintaining stability in the telecom market.

According to officials, telecom companies had been raising the prices of call, SMS and data packages almost every month, triggering widespread complaints from users across the country. Under the new policy, operators will now be allowed to revise package prices only after reviewing the previous year’s tariff levels.

The regulator indicated that price increases will generally be limited to around 10 to 20 percent compared to the previous year’s rates, allowing companies to adjust for operational costs while ensuring affordability for consumers.

PTA has also enforced the Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025, making it mandatory for telecom companies to obtain prior approval before introducing new packages or increasing existing tariffs. Operators will not be allowed to launch new offers or change prices without regulatory clearance.

Officials said the authority remains responsible for both consumer protection and maintaining stability in the telecom sector. They added that Pakistan’s average revenue per user remains among the lowest in the region, although it is expected to improve gradually with the rollout of next generation services and future spectrum developments.