PTA Announces 5G Spectrum Auction in Pakistan for March 10
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially announced that the long-awaited auction of spectrum for Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS), including 5G, will be held on March 10, 2026, marking a major step toward improving mobile internet connectivity and digital infrastructure across Pakistan.
In a statement issued on Friday, the PTA said the final auction schedule was determined after regulatory alignment and extensive consultations with key stakeholders. The authority emphasized that the process has been designed to ensure transparency, smooth execution and wide participation from telecom operators and prospective bidders.
According to the PTA, the announced timeline provides sufficient preparation time for interested parties, reflecting the regulator’s commitment to encouraging broad participation while maintaining full compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements. Officials noted that careful planning was undertaken to address industry concerns and align the auction framework with international best practices.
The development follows approval from the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), which recently gave the green light for the auction of 5G spectrum in the country. The ECC’s approval is seen as a crucial policy milestone, clearing the way for Pakistan’s transition toward next-generation mobile services.
The PTA stated that all interested bidders have been advised to thoroughly review the Information Memorandum (IM) issued for the NGMS/5G spectrum auction. The authority also urged stakeholders to remain updated by regularly checking official notifications and updates published on the PTA’s website.
The launch of 5G services is expected to significantly enhance mobile broadband speeds, reduce latency and support emerging technologies such as smart cities, the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital services. Industry experts believe that a successful auction could accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation and improve overall internet quality for consumers and businesses alike.
With the auction date now finalized, attention is turning toward telecom operators’ strategies and preparations, as March 10 is expected to be a landmark day for Pakistan’s telecommunications sector.
