ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday officially launched its 5G spectrum auction, marking a major milestone in the country’s journey toward advanced digital connectivity and technological transformation.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and Attaullah Tarar, alongside Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeez Ur Rehman.
Three telecom companies qualified to participate in the auction, which offers approximately 600 megahertz of spectrum to introduce 5G services across the country.
First Phase of Auction Exceeds Expectations
During the first round, 190 MHz in the 2600 MHz band was offered, but demand exceeded supply, with an additional 110 MHz requested, prompting a five percent price increase for the second phase. The 3.5 GHz band, offering around 280 MHz spectrum, also witnessed high demand of 200 MHz.
Digital Transformation and Economic Growth
IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja called the auction a historic step that would enhance Pakistan’s digital economy and connectivity. She highlighted that while Pakistan entered the 3G and 4G era between 2014 and 2016, no major spectrum auctions occurred afterward, contributing to internet quality issues.
The minister added that the 5G rollout would initially focus on Islamabad and provincial capitals, with improvements to 4G networks expected within four to five months. She emphasized that fast, reliable, and affordable internet is now a basic need, supporting economy, agriculture, industry, and national security.
Infrastructure and Policy Support
Shaza Fatima announced the abolition of right-of-way charges, reducing them from Rs36,000 per kilometre to zero, allowing telecom operators to expand fiber networks faster. A national fiberisation plan will soon facilitate infrastructure growth after spectrum acquisition.
The auction framework was prepared in collaboration with the Spectrum Advisory Committee, Ministry of Finance, PTA, and Frequency Allocation Board, with international telecom organisations praising Pakistan’s approach at the Mobile World Congress.
PTA Chairman on 5G Rollout
PTA Chairman Hafeez Ur Rehman described 5G as a “digital highway” and the engine of Pakistan’s future, stating the auction marks the beginning of a new technological era. He acknowledged that spectrum availability had been the biggest challenge, and praised the coordinated efforts of government institutions and the armed forces to make it possible.
The government has taken all necessary steps to support the telecom industry, and it is now up to operators to actively participate in the auction to ensure a next-generation digital revolution in Pakistan.
This initiative forms part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s “Digital Nation Pakistan” vision, aiming to boost digitisation, enhance IT exports, train youth in technology, and promote a cashless economy.
The 5G spectrum auction not only promises faster internet but also positions Pakistan as a regional leader in telecom innovation, paving the way for a connected and technologically advanced future.
