Currently there are four cellular mobile operators in Pakistan i.e. Telenor Pakistan, Pakistan Mobile Communication Limited (PMCL/Jazz), PTML (Ufone), and China Mobile Pakistan (CMPak/Zong) are providing services using GSM, WCDMA and LTE etc.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) and Gilgit Baltistan (GB), there are six cellular mobile operators i.e. Jazz, Telenor, Ufone, CMPak, Warid and Special Communication Organization (SCO) are providing services in the said area. The operators have covered most part of the AJ&K and have also extended services to main localities of GB. Now, as a result of this, mobile services with data facilities are available in far flung mountainous areas of the country. The process for Next Generation Mobile services Award has already begun and soon people of AJ&K and GB will enjoy the high speed wireless broadband services in their areas.
Cellular Mobile licensing is however dependent on Policy Directive from the respective Government. Upon receipt of such a directive PTA carries out licensing process which includes preparation of Information Memorandum, consultation with prospective applicants, auction and subsequent award of the license/spectrum.
Policy Directive under Section 8(2) of the Pakistan Telecommunications (Re-organization) Act 1996 for Renewal of Cellular Mobile Licenses in 2019