Tech Desk 
Sep 01, 2025
Pakistan has ranked lowest in the region because of a severe spectrum shortage, with only 274 MHz available, compared to regional peers like Saudi Arabia, having 1200 MHz, and Thailand and Bangladesh having 600 MHz each.
Digital advancement has been hampered by this shortage, which has resulted in network congestion and poor internet quality, according to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
The deployment of 5G spectrum is anticipated to have a major economic impact, generating 3.1-13% more job opportunities and a 1.5-2.4% increase in GDP.
Additionally, a 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration might boost the country's economy.
Access to spectrum has the potential to directly increase exports by up to 1.9% and foreign direct investment by 2%.
However, the uncertainty surrounding the PTCL-Telenor merger and ongoing litigation has caused a delay in the 5G spectrum auction process.
The merger, which needs approval from the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP), was cited by Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja as the primary cause of the delay.
According to Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim, Pakistan could lose $1.8 billion in GDP over the next two years and $4.3bn by 2030 if the auction is postponed indefinitely.
Pakistan's digital future could be unlocked by a stable and investment-friendly spectrum framework, which would increase GDP, exports, and inclusion.
By December 2025, the government hopes to auction off the 5G spectrum, which could shift Pakistan's regional ranking from 16th to 6th in terms of spectrum allocation.
Pakistan's tardiness has led to poor internet quality, impacting industries like education, healthcare, and IT exports, as 101 countries have already begun implementing 5G services.
For the auction process to proceed smoothly, the litigation and ambiguity surrounding the PTCL-Telenor merger must be resolved.
