The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has officially granted Phase-II. Approval for Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited’s (PTCL) proposed acquisition of Telenor Pakistan. The long-awaited clearance marks a major milestone in the telecom sector’s consolidation and opens the way for a stronger, more competitive market.
According to a notice issued to the Pakistan Stock Exchange. PTCL and Telenor Pakistan BV signed a Share Purchase Agreement in August 2024. The deal includes the acquisition of all issued share capital of Telenor Pakistan (Private) Limited and Orion Towers (Private) Limited. PTCL expressed gratitude to the CCP for its comprehensive review, calling the approval a historic development for the telecom industry.
In its statement, PTCL emphasized that the merged entity would bring together the strengths of Ufone (PTML) and Telenor Pakistan to deliver improved network quality, wider coverage, and innovative digital services. The company said the move would enhance efficiency, create resilient infrastructure, and support the government’s vision of a digitally connected Pakistan.
The CCP’s approval came after one of the most detailed merger reviews in its history. The Commission examined multiple sub-markets, including cellular mobile services, international long-distance communication, fixed-line networks, leased lines, and IP bandwidth. Regulators applied the Substantial Lessening of Competition (SLC) Test to ensure the deal would not distort market competition.
Between September 2024 and August 2025, the CCP conducted at least five open hearings along with several closed-door sessions. Officials sought extensive documentation, including business plans, interconnection agreements, and financial data, to assess the transaction. Despite external pressure for quick approval, the Commission insisted on transparency and adherence to statutory requirements. Chairman Dr. Kabir Sidhu stated that public interest required a thorough probe, even if it meant delays.
Industry experts say the PTCL-Telenor review is consistent with global practices. Similar telecom mergers have also faced lengthy evaluations, such as Vodafone’s merger with Three UK, which took nearly two years, and the Sprint-T-Mobile merger in the U.S., which lasted 22 months. By comparison, the CCP’s 18-month review demonstrates the complexity of such transactions and the importance of protecting market competition.
While the CCP’s order confirms compliance with the Competition Act, 2010, the deal remains subject to other regulatory and corporate approvals before finalization. Both companies are now expected to complete formal agreements and secure clearance from relevant authorities to close the acquisition.
The consolidation is seen as a turning point for Pakistan’s telecom sector, with the potential to boost connectivity, drive digital innovation, and deliver greater value to millions of users nationwide.
For more background on telecom mergers worldwide, visit Wikipedia. For regional business coverage, follow Dawn and CNN. officially Phase-II CCP Approves PTCL Acquisition of Telenor Pakistan
