WISPAP calls for transparent bandwidth policies following PTA concerns

KARACHI: In response to recent findings by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) regarding restrictive practices by major IP bandwidth providers, the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) has issued a call for adopting international best practices to ensure a fair and competitive internet market in the country.

In its recent statement, the PTA had said that major wholesale IP bandwidth providers, including PTCL, Transworld Associates (TWA), Cybernet, and SCO, have been imposing unfair conditions on smaller internet service providers (ISPs).

According to official documents, these practices involve setting restrictive price floors, recovering default amounts, and implementing other conditions that make it difficult for smaller providers from effectively reselling bandwidth. The PTA highlighted that such practices contravene the principles of fair competition and lack legal backing in the operators' licenses.

In response to these findings, in a statement released on Tuesday, Chairperson of WISPAP Shahzad Arshad called for a shift towards international best practices to promote fair competition and enhance service quality. The association emphasized that globally, regulatory bodies ensure non-discriminatory access to bandwidth for all providers. For example, he added, the EU’s Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) and the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) both advocate for fair access and net neutrality.

In its statement, the PTA had also noted that while it has recognized PTCL and TWA as significant market power operators in the wholesale IP bandwidth market, recent complaints have highlighted their restrictive measures.

The PTA’s analysis indicates that such practices obstruct the resale of IP bandwidth, which is otherwise permitted internationally without similar restrictions.In its response, WISPAP said that transparent and competitive bandwidth policies are crucial for the digital economy. Embracing international best practices and fostering an inclusive internet ecosystem will ensure equitable access to high-quality internet services for all users.

According to WISPAP, Pakistan could align with international standards by:Prohibiting anti-competitive practices: ensuring that major providers offer open access to bandwidth for all ISPs without imposing restrictive conditions.

Encouraging internet exchange points (IXPs): supporting the establishment of privately owned IXPs regulated by national authorities to reduce costs and improve service quality.Engaging stakeholders: promoting dialogue among all relevant parties to create a transparent and competitive internet market.

The association also highlighted that adopting such measures could significantly benefit Pakistani consumers by fostering innovation and improving service quality, potentially reducing internet costs by Rs7-8 per unit.