PTA orders PTML to halt new ONIC SIM and eSIM sales

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority issued an order compelling Pakistan Telecommunication Mobile Limited to immediately stop issuing new ONIC SIM cards, eSIMs, and to halt all related marketing, subscription and activation processes. The decision comes more than three years after an earlier notice to Ufone’s management, which was contested in court and ultimately upheld on September 11, 2026. PTML, now the legal name for Ufone after its merger with Telenor Pakistan, must file a compliance report within seven working days and transfer existing ONIC customers to PTML’s network within three months, unless it secures an MVNO licence to continue operating ONIC as a separate brand.

A senior PTA official indicated that ONIC’s distinct branding, packages, app and billing system resemble an MVNO model. The merged Ufone/Telenor company reassured customers that ONIC services will not be disrupted. The board of Ufone includes the federal secretary for IT and other government officials, reflecting strong state involvement.