Cabinet Approves Recommendations for 5G Spectrum Auction

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Cabinet on Wednesday approved the recommendations of the 5G Spectrum Auction Advisory Committee, clearing the way for the launch of fifth-generation mobile services in the country.

The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Under the approved plan, 600 megahertz (MHz) of spectrum will be offered for auction to telecom operators. The government aims to introduce 5G services in a phased manner, with initial launch planned in five major cities. As previously reported by Techjuice, the planned rollout will initially concentrate on large metropolitan areas where demand, infrastructure readiness, and commercial viability are most robust. This approach will gradually expand to other regions over time. The auction will be deemed successful if more than 50% of the 600 MHz spectrum is sold.

Officials said the move is expected to enhance digital connectivity, boost economic activity, and support innovation across key sectors, including industry, education, healthcare, and information technology.

The cabinet’s approval marks a significant step toward Pakistan’s digital transformation agenda, as authorities move closer to conducting the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction.

Further details regarding the auction timeline and regulatory framework are expected to be announced by the relevant authorities in the coming days.