The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has responded to rising concerns on social media over mobile tariffs, service quality, and unauthorized deductions, reaffirming its strong commitment to protecting consumer rights.

The regulator directed all mobile operators to obtain explicit subscriber consent before activating any Value-Added Services (VAS), warning that unauthorized activations will not be tolerated under the updated framework.

PTA urged consumers to regularly check and manage their active subscriptions through official mobile operator applications, advising vigilance to prevent unwanted charges arising from unmonitored or automatically activated VAS packages.

In response to concerns about mobile tariffs and service quality, PTA highlighted the introduction of the Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025, which require operators with Significant Market Power (SMP) to seek prior approval before launching or revising tariffs.

Other mobile operators, while permitted to set tariffs based on business considerations, remain subject to PTA intervention if pricing practices are found to harm consumer interests, ensuring a balance between market freedom and consumer protection.

The authority said maintaining sustainable market conditions is essential, noting that Pakistan has one of the lowest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) levels and some of the most affordable mobile data prices in the region.

To further enhance service quality, PTA announced a spectrum auction scheduled for March 2026, which will require substantial investment from mobile operators to acquire additional spectrum and expand network infrastructure nationwide.

The regulator stated that these investments will directly improve network coverage, data speeds, and overall mobile performance, reflecting PTA’s commitment to technological advancement and an enhanced consumer experience.

Consumers experiencing service-related issues or unauthorized deductions are encouraged to lodge complaints through PTA’s toll-free helpline 0800-55050 or via the Complaint Management System available on its official website.

PTA reiterated that its regulatory framework aims to balance transparency, consumer protection, and sustainable investment, ensuring Pakistan’s telecom sector remains competitive, fair, and capable of delivering high-quality mobile services to all users.