Pakistan edges closer to 5G spectrum in Pakistan as PTA sets strict auction guidelines

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is on the verge of launching 5G technology, with the federal cabinet set to issue the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction guidelines on Tuesday. Individuals interested in the 5G tech auction will formally pave the way for the country’s transition to next-generation mobile connectivity.

The guidelines issued by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for licensed operators said that they will be required to ensure 5G launch in a way prioritising consumer protection, emergency services, and data privacy.

The statement said that the 5G operators will be required to maintain full network monitoring, prevent discriminatory or non-competitive services, and comply with the PTA’s Quality of Service standards. Coverage maps for 4G and 5G must be published online, and companies must promote local production of mobile and telecom equipment, the guidelines said.

Authorities plan to offer six frequency bands totalling 600 MHz of spectrum, with the PTA prioritising the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands.

The auction is expected to conclude before February 15, 2026, and will be conducted transparently with media presence. Pakistan’s three major mobile operators are expected to participate, while foreign companies will also be eligible to submit bids.

The IT minister emphasised that service requirements for winning bidders will be more stringent than in previous auctions, with a focus on high-quality service. A portion of the auction proceeds will be reinvested in the telecom sector to improve overall service quality.

Pakistan currently lacks 5G infrastructure, so commercial services are expected to take six to seven months to roll out. Initial deployment will begin in five major cities, including four provincial capitals and the Islamabad Capital Territory. Efforts to enhance network quality will start within weeks of the auction.

Regarding the 5G spectrum, the Federal IT Minister Shiza Fatima, earlier, has also highlighted broader connectivity initiatives, including the expansion of fibre-optic networks, removal of right-of-way charges to accelerate fibre deployment, and increased internet availability along highways, supported by the Universal Service Fund.

Economically, the telecom sector has contributed approximately Rs1.5 trillion in taxes and investments over the past five years, while improved internet penetration is projected to add an estimated $4 billion to Pakistan’s GDP. Experts note that at least 100 MHz of spectrum is required for effective 5G services, and pricing will be kept competitive to encourage investment.

Media reports suggest that commercial 5G services could launch in major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi in 2026. Service quality targets aim to rise from 4 Mbps in the first year to 25 Mbps over time, accompanied by annual tower installations and expanded fibre networks, marking a significant upgrade to Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. The recent Ufone-Telenor merger is also expected to facilitate 5G adoption in the IT and telecom sectors.

The auction, coupled with strict PTA regulations, is being hailed as a major step toward bringing high-speed, next-generation mobile connectivity to Pakistan, balancing technological advancement with consumer protection and economic growth.