ISLAMABAD: The National Economic Research Associates Inc. (NERA), a U.S.-based international consultancy firm hired by the government for the 5G spectrum auction, has submitted its initial report to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
Sources informed TechJuice that the final draft report is yet to be completed due to delays in the Competition Commission of Pakistan’s (CCP) decision on the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan by Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and the unavailability of the full 194 MHz spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band. This band is highly attractive to cellular mobile operators because it supports both LTE/4G and 5G services. The situation is expected to become clearer once the CCP announces its decision and the courts resolve the ongoing litigation regarding the disputed spectrum.
Sources further stated that NERA will continue contributing to the report, and the final version will be submitted once the pending issues are resolved. NERA had previously expressed concerns and recommended that decisions regarding the number of cellular mobile operators (CMOs), particularly in light of the proposed merger, should be expedited.
NERA also highlighted the issue of non-availability of the full 194 MHz spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band. Out of this, 140 MHz is currently under litigation, as discussed in the latest Advisory Committee meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb. This litigation is likely to impact the 5G auction, as only 54 MHz would be available in this critical band—insufficient for even a single operator.
The PTA engaged NERA on November 5, 2024, to provide consultancy services for the “Release of IMT Spectrum for Improvement of Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services in Pakistan.” According to the terms of reference, NERA was expected to submit its recommendations to the auction advisory committee within 60 working days.
The consultant’s final recommendations will be forwarded to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) by the advisory committee. The ECC will review and present them to the federal cabinet for approval regarding the reserve price, number of bands to be auctioned, and auction timelines.