Islamabad, July 15, 2025: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is poised to announce decisive actions regarding Long Distance and International (LDI) companies that owe over Rs. 80 billion in unpaid dues. The verdict is expected between July and August 2025.
Despite expired licenses and unresolved license renewals, several LDI operators continue their services. PTA held multiple hearings between April and May 2025, focusing on Rs. 24 billion in principal dues and Rs. 56 billion in late surcharges. However, no meaningful resolution emerged from the discussions.
Documents show five of the nine major LDI firms have agreed to repay Rs. 8.2 billion in installments, while four others refused any payment arrangement. Of the 13 LDI operators, only four had their licenses renewed in 2024. Seven licenses expired that same year, with the remaining two set to lapse in 2025 and 2026.
In addition to license issues, most LDI companies have not paid Access Promotion Contribution (APC) charges to the Universal Service Fund (USF) for several years. Many firms have also secured court-issued stay orders to avoid immediate payments, further stalling enforcement.
Efforts by the Ministry of IT to mediate the situation through dialogue in May 2025 yielded no official meeting records shared with PTA, leaving regulatory processes hampered.
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With hearings now concluded, PTA is preparing to issue formal decisions based on legal findings and official records. These directives will cover recovery of dues and outline future operational permissions for defaulting LDI companies.
