Pakistan has taken another step toward strengthening its digital ecosystem as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued Internet of Things (IoT) licenses to 23 companies.
The development is seen as a significant move to accelerate digital transformation and expand next-generation connectivity infrastructure across the country. By introducing a structured licensing framework, the regulator aims to facilitate the adoption of advanced technologies in multiple sectors.
The newly introduced licensing regime focuses on Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies, specifically designed for IoT applications. These networks enable efficient, long-range communication between connected devices while consuming minimal power, making them ideal for large-scale deployments.
According to PTA, the initiative opens up opportunities in key areas such as smart cities, industrial automation, environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, smart logistics, and energy management. The authority emphasized that the framework ensures secure, scalable, and interference-free connectivity through regulated spectrum allocation.
The move also reflects growing interest from both domestic and international stakeholders in Pakistan’s expanding digital landscape, positioning the country as an emerging player in the global technology space.
PTA began accepting applications for IoT licenses in May 2022, establishing a formal process under its Class Licensing regime. Companies can apply through the authority’s online portal in line with the LPWAN IoT framework, which outlines technical standards, authorized frequency bands, and operational requirements.
To ensure compliance and improve network performance, PTA has conducted field surveys and inspections of licensed operators. These evaluations have resulted in targeted proposals aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and supporting sustainable IoT deployment.
In addition, the authority has released a consultation paper on the Framework for Short Range Devices and Terrestrial IoT, inviting industry feedback to further refine its regulatory approach.
Under the current structure, companies are granted a 10-year district-level license with an initial fee of Rs. 300,000 and an annual fee of Rs. 100,000. LPWAN operators are required to operate within designated frequency bands, including 865 to 868 MHz, while adhering to strict data protection, privacy, and security regulations.
Industry experts believe that the initiative will play a crucial role in enabling innovation and driving economic growth by supporting the adoption of connected technologies across Pakistan.
