Two major telecom companies in Pakistan have asked the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to approve increases in mobile and internet tariffs, well-informed sources told NBTV News
Sources said the sharp rise in diesel prices is affecting the telecom industry as operators rely heavily on diesel generators to power telecom sites, especially in remote and off-grid areas.
Frequent load shedding and nationwide power shortages have increased dependence on backup generators, significantly raising operational costs.
In their communication to the PTA, the operators said rising fuel costs are making it difficult to maintain service quality and ensure uninterrupted operations. They warned that without a tariff revision, sustaining reliable services – particularly in areas hit by severe energy shortages – will become increasingly difficult.
They added that fuel price increases, driven by geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel and concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, have disrupted global oil supply chains. The resulting spike in fuel costs has also strained Pakistan’s economy and affected multiple sectors, including telecommunications.
The companies have requested higher mobile and internet package prices to offset rising fuel expenses and noted that any increase in electricity tariffs under the Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA) mechanism would add further financial pressure.
Petrol prices in Pakistan had previously surged to a historic high of Rs. 458.41 per litre on April 3, 2026. The government then partially reduced the petrol levy, bringing prices down to Rs. 378 per litre. It is now at Rs. 366/litre.
Diesel had risen earlier to Rs. 520 per litre in early April. It is now at Rs. 385/litre.
PTA is expected to review the request, and sources suggest that telecom tariffs could potentially increase by 10 to 15 percent, depending on the outcome of the regulatory assessment, sources added.