The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is facing delays in recovering Rs. 78 billion in outstanding dues from Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom companies as it awaits a policy directive from the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoIT). The recovery process has stalled due to the ministry’s inaction, despite PTA’s repeated requests for guidance.
According to PTA documents, five LDI companies have offered to pay Rs. 8.2 billion, the full principal amount, in installments. However, the lack of a policy directive has prevented any progress. Meanwhile, four other LDI companies owe Rs. 15.8 billion but have refused to settle their dues. Additionally, ten companies are liable for Rs. 54.5 billion in late payment surcharges.
The situation is further complicated by a Sindh High Court order barring PTA from taking action against the companies until their license renewal issues are resolved. The court has directed PTA to determine the renewal status of licenses that expired in 2024. Despite the expiration, the companies continue to operate, having sought relief from various courts.
PTA had sent a letter to the IT ministry on December 4 last year, requesting a policy directive by December 13 to address the matter. However, no directive has been issued, leaving PTA unable to enforce payments or finalize the renewal of licenses for the ten LDI companies.
The Ministry of IT, which oversees the Universal Service Fund (USF) and the Access Promotion Contribution (APC) fund, has recommended that the federal government approach the Supreme Court to consolidate all cases related to LDI companies. It has proposed appointing a referee judge to prioritize these cases for swift resolution, believing this approach will expedite the recovery process and clarify the legal and regulatory issues.
The matter has been further complicated by allegations of misconduct. Sources claim that a policy directive issued by the IT ministry last year was allegedly designed to benefit LDI companies, leading to the removal of the then-secretary.
