Syed Saif Ul Hassan 
Nov 15, 2025
An advertising board is seen during the first demonstration of the technology 5G in Lisbon, Portugal June 4, 2018. — Reuters
In favour of Pakistan's struggling internet connectivity space, the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) of Pakistan has allocated 606 MHz of spectrum across six bands for the upcoming 5G auction.
The significant spectrum allocation appears as a catalyst for the country's digital connectivity overhaul through the impending 5G launch in the country.
It covers the 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600, and 3500 MHz bands, more than doubling the current capacity and setting a robust foundation for nationwide 5G deployment.
To ensure efficient utilisation of this spectrum, the government has established a Spectrum Advisory Committee, which will oversee policy decisions, auction design, and rollout targets.
With Pakistan's 5G spectrum auction moving at a snail's pace, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has enlisted the help of US-based consultancy NERA to develop a comprehensive strategy for spectrum valuation and auction structuring.
NERA is expected to submit recommendations comprising appropriate measures to expedite the spectrum auction for 5G rollout in Pakistan.
The auction is anticipated to take place within months, based on the issuance of a federal policy directive.
Besides, the Ministry of IT is working on developing two IT parks under the Public Sector Development Programme to foster innovation and digital entrepreneurship.
Incentives are also being offered to the ICT sector, which include full foreign ownership and tax benefits for IT exports, aiming to enhance the ease of doing business in the telecom industry.
