The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has repealed the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Regulations, 2012, bringing an end to the existing regulatory framework and paving the way for new rules governing virtual network operators in the country.

According to a notification published in the Gazette of Pakistan, the PTA repealed the MVNO Regulations, 2012, under the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996.

The regulator has, however, maintained continuity for existing arrangements. All licenses granted, approvals issued, and actions taken under the repealed regulations before the notification came into force will remain valid and in force.

These licences, approvals, and actions will continue until they are reviewed, amended, or superseded under a new regulatory framework.

The PTA said the new framework would be notified separately.

The repeal took effect from the date of publication of the notification in the official Gazette, formally ending the regulatory regime introduced for MVNOs in 2012.

MVNOs offer mobile telecom services without operating their own radio access networks, instead using the infrastructure of existing mobile network operators. The model can enable companies to target specific customer segments and introduce new telecom and digital service offerings.

The repeal gives the regulator an opportunity to establish an updated framework for MVNOs as Pakistan seeks to expand competition and encourage new business models in the telecom and digital services sectors.

The scope and requirements of the new framework, including licensing and operational arrangements for MVNOs, will become clear once the PTA formally notifies the revised regime.