The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has admitted that mobile operators have increased package tariffs by up to 22 per cent over the past year, while rejecting claims that telecom companies have been raising prices by 10 to 20 per cent every month.
According to official documents, the PTA reviewed the top 10 subscriber packages offered by major operators including Jazz, Telenor, Zong and Ufone. The analysis found that average tariffs increased by between 12 per cent and 22 per cent from June 2025 to June 2026.
However, the regulator clarified that the annual increases translate into an average monthly rise of around 1 to 2 per cent. It said there was no evidence that mobile operators were increasing package prices by 10 to 20 per cent every month.
The PTA’s statement comes amid growing concerns among consumers over repeated increases in mobile package prices, with users paying more for calls, mobile data and other telecom services.
The authority said it regulates tariffs of Jazz, which is classified as a Significant Market Power (SMP) operator, as well as Ufone and Telenor under the merger order issued on November 30, 2025.
Zong, which is classified as a non-SMP operator, is allowed to revise its tariffs based on its commercial decisions. However, the PTA can intervene if tariffs adversely affect consumer interests under the Mobile Tariff Regulations, 2025.
The regulator said protecting consumers’ interests while ensuring telecom operators receive a reasonable return on their investments is part of its legal mandate.
The PTA also said it regularly reviews and approves tariffs for SMP operator Jazz after considering consumer interests, inflation, economic conditions and market competition.
In addition, the authority conducts anonymous billing verification exercises to ensure customers are being charged according to approved tariffs.
Consumers who face problems related to mobile tariffs or incorrect billing can file complaints through the PTA’s Complaint Management System (CMS), its mobile application or helpline.
The PTA said it takes up such complaints with the relevant telecom operator under the applicable legal framework to provide relief to affected consumers.
While rejecting claims of monthly increases of 10 to 20 per cent, the PTA’s clarification confirms that mobile package prices have risen substantially over the past year, with some tariffs increasing by as much as 22 per cent.
With mobile connectivity now an essential service for households, businesses and digital users, continued increases in package prices remain a significant concern for consumers.