Islamabad (Ghulam Murtaza): Payments of Rs 80 billion in Access Promotion Contribution (APC) dues pending since 2009, 2010, and 2011 by Long Distance International (LDI) operators have faced further delays, raising concerns about the future of Pakistan’s telecom sector. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is being criticized for remaining a silent spectator.

According to details, the defaulting companies have completely distanced themselves from settlements and payments, allegedly using the judiciary as a shield for financial interests. Even last year’s license fees were not paid. PTA officials confirmed that several operators are running businesses illegally without valid licenses, but added that their “hands are tied.”

When asked about the impact on Pakistan’s telecom future, officials admitted that such practices could jeopardize the launch of 5G, as foreign investors would be reluctant to enter Pakistan. They further warned that the 5G licensing process is already under a cloud, as the absence of new entrants will hinder growth. Operators continue business under stay orders from courts, leading to significant losses in foreign exchange inflows from the telecom sector.

IT experts noted that Pakistan has become a negative example globally, where poor governance has resulted in billions of rupees in annual losses to the national exchequer. They also warned that other major telecom operators may follow the same path—operating without license renewals under court stays.

Earlier, PTA had directed six companies to clear their outstanding dues within 30 days and barred them from approaching any legal forum. However, Redtone, Wateen, and Telecard challenged the directives in the Sindh High Court.

Following hearings, PTA ordered Wateen Telecom to pay Rs 6.25 billion and Redtone to pay Rs 14.31 billion—the highest liability among the defaulters. Yet, instead of complying, the companies contested the orders in court.

PTA clarified that license renewals and continuation of operations were conditional on clearing dues and penalties. But Wateen, Redtone, and Telecard not only failed to pay but have now outright refused to settle the outstanding amounts.