Running a telco is not that expensive. The problem is that building out the infrastructure in the first place is hugely expensive.

This is why most countries have only a few "real" operators that own and operate infra, and tons of virtual operators (MVNO) that run on top of others' gear.

Sure, but that just means it's an irrelevant factor when comparing low vs. high telecom costs.

Though my thinking is when selling censorship equipment to a country, you probably charge a country like .pk more because you know they'll find a way to pay for best-in-class.