Pakistan, Jan. 8 -- The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has issued a policy framework enabling Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) to operate nationwide without owning spectrum The framework, approved by the federal cabinet, allows virtual operators to deliver mobile and next-generation services by leasing infrastructure from existing licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

Under the new policy, the initial fee for a nationwide MVNO licence has been set at $140,000, payable upfront in Pakistani rupees at the interbank dollar rate. The PTA defines an MVNO as a provider that holds no frequency spectrum assignment but offers services through commercial agreements with one or more MNOs.

The framework grants MVNOs the abi...