As reported by the local news outlet, Business Recorder, outlines that while the transaction aligns with the national legal and regulatory framework, the authority considers several precautionary measures essential to safeguard the interests of consumers, other license holders, and the telecom market as a whole.
Following the acquisition, PTCL plans to merge Telenor Pakistan (TP) with Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited (PMCL, Ufone) into a unified entity referred to as MergeCo.
The PTA clarified that PMCL may remain the surviving company post merger, and all conditions will apply to MergeCo as well.
Meanwhile, both companies are required to maintain their separate legal identities and continue providing services under their existing licenses in Pakistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan.
PTCL is mandated to fully assume all financial, legal, regulatory, and operational responsibilities related to Telenor Pakistan, Telenor Long Distance & International (TLDI), and Orien Towers. Additionally, the companies must submit updated regulatory documents, including Form 9, Form 7, and Form A, within 30 days.
Branding changes, new service introductions, or any alteration in company names require at least 30 days’ prior approval from PTA. All regulatory dues must be settled, except those under court injunction.
The PTA has emphasized a non discriminatory, transparent, and competitive environment. PTCL and MergeCo are barred from entering agreements that would limit other license holders from accessing infrastructure, bandwidth, or network resources. Contracts must be on an arms length basis to prevent undue subsidies or market distortions.
The companies are required to maintain separate accounts for each business unit and submit detailed annual financial statements to prevent cross-subsidization or unfair pricing.
Strict interconnection guidelines apply, Reference Interconnection Offers (RIOs) must be submitted within three months. Existing agreements cannot be altered without prior approval. Any reduction in interconnection capacity or change in rates requires PTA permission.
Tariff changes, new pricing schemes, or fees must receive regulatory approval, and cross subsidization between services is prohibited.
PTA requires submission of new Codes of Commercial Practice (CCP) and Standard Contract of Service (SCOS) within 90 days.
Sites, spectrum, or networks cannot be merged or decommissioned without approval, and all Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) must remain active for at least four months.
MergeCo is obliged to maintain or improve service quality post merger and provide PTA with real time network monitoring access.
MergeCo must pay licensing fees if it chooses not to renew any license and provide national roaming facilities to other operators under mutual agreements. Quarterly compliance reports are mandatory. PTA has reserved the right to impose additional conditions during the merger process.
This comprehensive directive highlights PTA’s commitment to protect consumers, maintain a level playing field, and ensure transparency in Pakistan’s evolving telecom sector.
