ECC Approves Advisory Committee Recommendations for Pakistan’s 5G Auction

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Tuesday approved the recommendations of the Auction Advisory Committee (AAC) for Pakistan’s long-awaited 5G spectrum auction, clearing a key policy hurdle ahead of the bidding process.

The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.

“We are moving forward with the Digital Pakistan programme,” said Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. “The ECC has approved the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee.”

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja was also present.

Addressing a joint press conference after the ECC meeting, the finance minister said the approval reflects the government’s commitment to fast-tracking digital transformation and attracting investment in the telecom sector. He noted that the recommendations aim to ensure a transparent, competitive and investor-friendly auction framework while safeguarding consumer interests and fiscal considerations.

IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the ECC’s approval would pave the way for the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to move forward with the next steps, including finalizing auction rules and timelines. She added that 5G rollout is critical for boosting productivity, innovation and new digital services across key sectors such as industry, health, education and agriculture.

“We will soon present the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee before the cabinet,” said IT Minister Shaza Fatima. “Consultation with the telecom sector and other relevant stakeholders will be ensured,.”

“We are going to auction 600 megahertz of spectrum,” Shaza Fatima continued. “5G will be introduced in Pakistan very soon. The entire process will be completed within the next four to six months.”

She stressed that the “internet is the foundation of the entire digital ecosystem.”

“Along with internet speed, we will also expand its access,” she explained further. “We are trying to complete the auction in the first week of February 2026.”

According to officials, the AAC had reviewed spectrum valuation, auction design, payment terms and rollout obligations, and proposed measures to balance affordability for operators with sustainable revenue for the government. The approved recommendations are expected to enhance market confidence and encourage participation by telecom operators.

The ministers said further details, including the proposed auction date and available spectrum bands, would be shared by the IT ministry and PTA in due course. The government reiterated that timely execution of the 5G auction remains a priority to support economic growth and strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.