The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has cautioned that it may revoke the PTCL-Telenor merger if the companies are found involved in anti-competitive practices or fail to comply with the conditions set by the regulator.
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“Strict compliance is mandatory. We can revoke the PTCL-Telenor merger over anti-competitive practices and non-compliance of conditions,” said CCP Member Salman Ameen at a press conference on Wednesday, alongside Chairman Dr. Kabir Sidhu.
Chairman Sidhu noted that the commission reviewed global telecom mergers in the US, UK, and EU to evaluate risks, stakeholder concerns, and potential impacts on Pakistan’s telecom market. He described the transaction as highly complex, involving multiple sub-markets, integrations, and cross-border elements within the global telecom landscape.
Senior Legal Advisor Barrister Ambreen said the merger was approved conditionally to safeguard fair competition. She highlighted that PTCL and its subsidiaries must undergo third-party audits, maintain separate boards and management teams, and enforce a three-year cooling-off period to prevent conflicts of interest.
She added that spectrum consolidation and the joint operation of 24,000 sites would accelerate 5G rollout, expand coverage in rural and urban areas, and improve overall service quality. The merger, she said, is expected to cut costs, reduce duplication, and strengthen Pakistan’s digitalisation roadmap.
Salman Ameen stressed that the CCP had ensured a level playing field for all operators, while PTCL has committed to new investments, expansion plans, and improved service delivery—commitments that will be closely monitored.
Concluding, Chairman Sidhu said consumer welfare and market competitiveness will remain top priorities, ensuring the merger contributes positively to Pakistan’s telecom growth.
