The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued 47 district level internet service licenses during the first half of 2026 as part of a new regulatory framework designed to expand broadband access and encourage more local internet service providers across the country.
The licensing drive accelerated throughout the year, with 20 licenses issued in June, 14 in May, 12 in March, and one in February, bringing new internet service providers (ISPs) to districts across Pakistan.
June recorded the highest number of approvals. The licensing campaign began on June 1 with approvals for operators in Sialkot and Attock, before nine additional providers received licenses on June 8 alone.
Punjab accounted for the largest share of new licenses, reflecting growing demand for localized broadband services. Lahore received the highest number with seven licenses, followed by Sargodha with five, while Faisalabad and Islamabad each received four.
The initiative also expanded internet services beyond major cities, with licenses issued for operators in underserved areas including South Waziristan and Lower Chitral.
PTA introduced the district level Class License for Internet Services on January 1, 2026, replacing the previous model that generally required operators to obtain larger regional or nationwide licenses with significantly higher investment requirements.
Under the new framework, internet service providers can obtain licenses for individual districts, lowering barriers to entry for small and medium sized operators and encouraging localized investment.
The licenses are valid for 10 years and form part of PTA’s broader strategy to improve last mile connectivity, increase competition in Pakistan’s broadband market, expand internet access in rural and remote areas, and support the country’s digital transformation.
Get the latest tech news, telecom insights, and product launches wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
Shares
