PTA Finalizes Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has finalized the draft Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations, which have been vetted by the Law and Justice Division and are now awaiting approval from the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet. After ECC approval, the regulations will be sent to the Cabinet for final approval. Once approved, they will be officially notified, and their implementation will begin. These regulations aim to ensure an open and competitive market while maintaining interoperability, performance, safety, and durability of telecom systems. According to the PTA document, the authority has established the Standards and Conformance Assurance Directorate, a specialized body responsible for defining testing methods in line with regulatory technical standards. This initiative reflects PTA’s commitment to enhancing the overall quality and reliability of telecom equipment in Pakistan. The directorate will work to ensure that all equipment meets the required specifications before entering the market. The draft regulations apply to a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including telecom licensees, manufacturers, and importers. They cover key aspects such as electromagnetic compatibility, health and safety, and radio frequency communication. The objective is to prevent the circulation of substandard or incompatible telecom products that could disrupt communication networks and pose risks to users. According to the PTA document, the enforcement of stringent testing measures will help maintain seamless communication and reduce technical issues arising from incompatible or poorly designed systems. By introducing these regulations, PTA aims to safeguard consumers and businesses from faulty or non-compliant telecom equipment. Ensuring adherence to these standards will also contribute to the overall security and efficiency of Pakistan’s telecom sector.