PTA Plans Cheaper e-SIMs and Pushes Satellite Internet to Expand Digital Connectivity in Pakistan

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced plans to reduce e-SIM activation costs while accelerating the introduction of satellite internet services, marking a major step toward improving digital connectivity and supporting Pakistan’s transition to next-generation telecommunications. The announcement came during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, where the PTA Chairman shared updates on the country’s digital infrastructure and future connectivity plans.

PTA Proposes Lower e-SIM Prices

The PTA is currently in discussions with mobile network operators to reduce the existing e-SIM activation fee from Rs. 2,000 to between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 1,500. According to the authority, e-SIM prices are expected to decline further as adoption increases and demand grows across the country.Lower activation costs are expected to encourage more users to switch to e-SIM technology, offering greater convenience and flexibility for smartphone users.

High Smartphone Taxes May Impact Pakistan’s 5G Rollou

During the committee meeting, PTA officials also raised concerns over the heavy taxation imposed on imported premium smartphones. The authority warned that excessive import duties could slow the adoption of 5G-enabled devices, potentially delaying Pakistan’s nationwide 5G rollout.While Pakistan now manufactures millions of mobile phones every year, flagship smartphones still attract high taxes, making advanced 5G-compatible devices less accessible to consumers.

Satellite Internet to Improve Connectivity in Remote Area

Expanding internet access to underserved regions remained a key focus of the meeting. The PTA emphasized that licensing satellite internet providers is essential for delivering reliable broadband services to remote communities, mountainous regions, and national highways where conventional telecom infrastructure is either limited or unavailable.The regulator confirmed that the regulatory framework for satellite internet has been finalized and submitted to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication for further approvalStarlink, OneWeb, and Project Kuiper Under Consideration The PTA has recommended licensing leading satellite internet providers, including Starlink, OneWeb, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, to offer satellite-based broadband services in Pakistan, subject to regulatory approvals.

Before receiving PTA licences, these companies must first obtain registration from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), which oversees space-related activities in the country.

A Step Toward Greater Digital InclusiIf approved, these initiatives could significantly strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem by making e-SIM technology more affordable and extending high-speed internet access to areas beyond the reach of traditional telecom networks. Industry experts believe that lower e-SIM costs, combined with the rollout of satellite internet services, will accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation, improve nationwide connectivity, and support broader access to reliable, high-speed internet for businesses, students, and communities across the country.