Telecom Equipment Standards Await Cabinet Approval

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has forwarded the proposed Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations to the Cabinet Committee for Legislative Cases (CCLC) for review, according to local media reports.

The draft had previously been vetted by the Ministry of Law and sent to the Cabinet Division. However, the Cabinet Division returned it, requesting that the CCLC review it first before it could proceed to the federal cabinet for final approval. With this step now completed, the regulations are one step closer to becoming official.

In its latest annual report, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) emphasized the creation of the Standards and Conformance Assurance Directorate, a specialized body focused on setting testing methods that align with regulatory standards.

The directorate is tasked with ensuring that all telecom devices comply with established standards before they reach the market. This measure is aimed at preventing disruptions and safeguarding against security threats posed by substandard equipment.

The draft regulations are set to impact a range of stakeholders, including telecom operators, manufacturers, and importers. They cover key areas such as electromagnetic compatibility, health and safety, and radio frequency compliance. The primary goal is to eliminate the circulation of low-quality or incompatible devices that could harm network performance or endanger users.

According to a PTA document, strict testing protocols will help maintain uninterrupted communication services and reduce technical problems caused by non-compliant equipment. By enforcing these standards, PTA aims to protect both consumers and businesses, while also boosting the overall reliability and security of Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure.

With the CCLC review complete, the federal cabinet will now consider the proposed regulations. If approved, this new framework will significantly enhance regulatory control over telecom equipment, ensuring that only high-quality devices are allowed into the market.