The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has suggested a new regulatory framework that would require all Over-The-Top (OTT) services, such as YouTube, Netflix, WhatsApp, Facebook, and X (Twitter), to register locally for 15 years.
According to a 14-page draft posted on its website, the PTA suggests that OTT Communication Services operating in Pakistan get a 15-year license from the regulatory agency.
Malahat Obaid, PTA’s spokesperson, told local media that the draft paper has been released to collect comments from stakeholders, with a public response deadline of July 10.
“The PTA will review the responses and make an informed decision,” Obaid added over the phone.
The PTA divides OTT services into three categories: communication services (such as Viber, Skype, and WhatsApp), application services (such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram), and non-broadcasting media services (such as YouTube, Netflix, Spotify).
If enacted, OTT services would be required to comply with the new authorisation framework within 12 months, after which services without PTA approval would be considered unlawful, according to the plan.
The draft framework relies on the contentious Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content Rules 2021 to require that OTT providers register locally.
In May 2022, the Islamabad High Court urged the government to review the 2021 Rules to ensure they were consistent with constitutional rights. However, no adjustments have been made to date.
Additionally, the new framework suggests that “personal data” be maintained solely in Pakistan, with content monitoring and assessment controlled by relevant government departments and institutions.
When questioned about the logic for mandating local registration and the repercussions for non-compliant OTT providers, as well as how the PTA intends to protect the privacy and security of Pakistani user data held locally, the PTA spokesman did not comment by the time this story was written.
