ISLAMABAD: Mobile phone users in Pakistan may face another increase in the prices of data, call and SMS packages as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) considers new regulatory rules for the telecom sector.
According to details, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications has prepared a draft titled the “Telecommunication Competition Rules 2026,” which proposes expanded powers for the PTA to monitor and regulate the telecom market.
According to the proposed set of rules, the authority will have the right to periodically conduct reviews of the telecom market and redefine its boundaries on the basis of changes in technologies, market conditions and other factors.
The PTA will also conduct an analysis of the level of competition and pricing practices in the telecom industry taking into account consumer demands, availability of other means of communication, pricing and technological advances.
Prices of Mobile Packages Have Already Hiked
Official documents and PTA statistics indicate that the first ten subscriber packages provided by Jazz, Telenor, Zong, and Ufone have been reviewed in the period from June 2025 to June 2026. There was found to be an increase in prices of up to 12%-22%.
However, the PTA has disregarded any claims by the media concerning the price hike for services provided by telecommunication firms at a rate of 10% to 20% each month. The regulatory body explains that the price increase on an annual basis means a price increase of 1% to 2% per month.
In case these regulations become law, telecommunication firms are supposed to change their pricing plan. Consequently, the prices for mobile data, voice calls, and SMS services may increase further.
Parents Beware: PTA Reveals How to Keep Children Safe Online
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a set of guidelines for parents aimed at protecting children from online risks and promoting safer and more responsible use of social media and the internet.
The initiative is intended to help shield children from the negative effects of excessive internet use while creating a safer digital environment for them.
It is suggested by the PTA that parents should control their kids’ internet usage to strike the right balance among education, exercise, family time, and fun through the internet.
Further, it is recommended by PTA that parents should place mobile phones, laptops, and tablets in common areas and ensure that their kids use them with proper supervision of adults.
It is important for parents to keep themselves updated with the virtual world and make their kids aware of social media usage.
Furthermore, the PTA recommends the use of parental control software and filters to protect children from exposure to any inappropriate content, inappropriate websites, and other harmful things on the internet.
As per the PTA, such steps would be helpful in making kids reap benefits from the internet without harming them psychologically and morally.
The PTA stressed that parental guidance and supervision are essential as children increasingly engage with social media and other online platforms.
