PTA orders PTML to suspend new ONIC SIM, eSIM issuance and subscriptions

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has ordered state-owned telecom operator Pakistan Telecommunication Mobile Limited (PTML) to halt the issuance of new ONIC SIMs and eSIMs, as well as the activation of new connections, acceptance of new subscriptions, and related marketing and commercial activities. This directive, issued after more than three years, followed a legal battle won by Ufone, the parent company of PTML.

The merger between PTML and Telenor Pakistan, which completed recently, brings together a company whose board includes government officials and a PML-N MNA. The PTA's order states that ONIC, with its distinct branding, packages, mobile app, billing and customer management systems, and direct customer operations, operates similarly to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).

Existing ONIC customers will need to be transferred to PTML within three months, or PTML can obtain an MVNO license to continue marketing ONIC as a separate entity. The PTA requires PTML to submit a compliance report within seven working days, confirming the cessation of the ordered activities and detailing the steps taken for compliance.

Ufone/Telenor Pakistan, in a statement, assured customers that ONIC services would remain uninterrupted, expressing their commitment to serving customers and maintaining high connectivity standards.