Deregulation of Telecom Sector

Privatization of Pakistan Telecom has been on cards for some years now. Year 2002 would see end of 7 years Telecom monopoly on voice telephony by PTCL.

Deregulation plan has been completed and would be announced by end of the year to invite applications from telecom operators from private sector.

It is estimated that US$7-8 billion can be invested into telecom sector of Pakistan.

100% Foreign Ownership Permitted

Government of Pakistan has allowed now 100% foreign equity ownership, without any local partner, to freely work in Pakistan.

Full Repatriation of Capital and Profits Permitted

Rules have also been changed to facilitate repatriation of capital and profits. More over 15 years a tax holiday has been announced for software export companies, with all facilities in Technology Parks in major cities of Pakistan.

Cost Effective Bandwidth Availability

Cost for bandwidth has been reduced substantially. From $87,000/per 2MB in April 2000, it has been curtailed to $3600/2MB.

Software IPR, Data Protection Laws

IT law is in place now to protect intellectual propriety rights. These laws also cover privacy, data protection and security.