Tech Desk 
Mar 03, 2025
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is experiencing several challenges in the 5G spectrum auction. Concerns have been raised over delays in the rollout of 5G services across the country, and the 5G spectrum auction is likely to be released by June 2025.
5G spectrum’s commercial release is expected to launch in early 2026. According to PTA notification, the company’s consultants have completed the telecom market assessment. Consultations on telecom reforms with equity holders are currently ongoing.
PTA has informed us that the auction process is currently at the pricing and auction design stage. The advisory committee will share policy recommendations with the government within a month. After the recommendations, the government will issue a policy mandate.
Delays in the merger of two combination companies have contributed to these issues. Additionally, legal disputes regarding spectrum allocation remain unresolved. Cases involving the 2600MHz, 2100MHz, and 1800MHz frequency bands are currently pending in court. Specifically:
- 140MHz spectrum cases in the 2600MHz band remain unresolved.
- A 6.6MHz spectrum case in the 1800MHz band is still pending.
- A 10MHz spectrum dispute in the 2100MHz band has yet to be resolved.
In addition, the 5G infrastructure development cost poses a great challenge, while the availability of 5G devices will also remain a great challenge. However, with the launch of 5G, data rates and service quality will surely be enhanced. 5G will significantly contribute to promoting IT services across the country, according to PTA.
It's worth mentioning that 5G is expected to contribute to economic growth by boosting Pakistan’s Gross domestic product (GDP). The release of 5G services will create multiple job opportunities and transform multiple sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and more.
