PTA Suggests 15-Year Licenses for Streaming Services in Pakistan
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed new rules for Over-The-Top (OTT) services, suggesting they should get a 15-year license to operate in Pakistan.
The draft rules are now available on the PTA’s website for public and stakeholder feedback over the next 14 days.
According to these rules, OTT services are apps or services delivered over the internet, like messaging apps (WhatsApp), video calls (Zoom), social networks (Facebook), and streaming platforms (YouTube, Netflix).
The PTA’s proposal divides OTT services into three types: OTT Communication Services (like WhatsApp), OTT Application Services (like social media and e-commerce apps), and OTT Media Services (like streaming platforms).
Under this plan, the PTA would oversee and authorize most OTT services, except for broadcasting ones, which would be regulated by PEMRA.
To offer OTT communication services, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) must get PTA approval. Alternatively, OTT providers can apply directly for a 15-year license to operate in Pakistan.
These rules aim to set up a system for managing and growing OTT services in Pakistan.
