Mobile phone users in Pakistan are unlikely to face an immediate increase in data costs when commercial 5G services are launched, as telecom operators are expected to initially provide next-generation connectivity through existing prepaid and postpaid data packages.
According to official documents from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), customers with 5G-compatible smartphones in areas covered by 5G networks will be able to access the service through their current data bundles without requiring separate 5G packages.
The regulator stated that mobile operators are expected to introduce 5G services using existing pricing structures during the initial rollout phase to encourage wider adoption of the technology.
However, PTA noted that operators may introduce premium packages in the future as demand grows and investments increase in areas such as spectrum acquisition, network upgrades, and infrastructure expansion.
The expected pricing approach indicates that telecom companies are likely to focus on increasing 5G adoption rather than immediately charging higher rates for the service.
PTA also clarified that users will not need to replace their existing SIM cards to access 5G networks. Existing 4G SIMs will be compatible with 5G services, provided users have supported devices and are located within coverage areas.
Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) have assured PTA that initial 5G tariffs will remain similar to existing mobile broadband prices to support mass adoption.
The regulator further highlighted that Pakistan’s mobile networks are already showing capacity to support advanced broadband services. Recent quality-of-service tests recorded average 5G download speeds of 135.42 Mbps on Ufone, 133.65 Mbps on Jazz, and 108.66 Mbps on Zong, based on monitoring conducted through Rohde & Schwarz equipment.
PTA has also emphasized the importance of affordable smartphones for the success of 5G adoption. The authority has urged the government to review taxes and duties on mobile handsets, warning that high device costs are limiting smartphone access, slowing broadband expansion, and affecting digital inclusion, especially in rural and low-income communities.
With local production of 5G-enabled smartphones increasing and operators preparing networks, Pakistan’s telecom sector is moving closer to the commercial launch of next-generation mobile services.
