Pakistan to Hold 5G Spectrum Auction Before June, Confirms PTA Chief

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s long-awaited 5G spectrum auction will take place before June 2025, with a commercial rollout expected by late 2025 or early 2026, according to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

The confirmation came from PTA Chairman Major General (Retired) Hafeez Ur Rehman during a Regulatory Masterclass event titled “5G and Beyond: Shaping the Future of Connectivity,” held in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

Addressing the event, the PTA chairman emphasized that 2025 will be a game-changer for Pakistan’s telecom sector, with 5G paving the way for enhanced digital infrastructure and connectivity. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to resolving industry challenges, including low Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), spectrum pricing, and payment in U.S. dollars. He assured that PTA is actively working as a facilitator between the government and telecom operators to ensure a smooth transition to 5G.

Additionally, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has initiated the formulation of a National Fiberization Plan, with the hiring process for a consultant already underway. This plan aims to enhance the country’s digital highways and improve overall connectivity.

The PTA chairman highlighted that the successful implementation of 5G requires robust digital infrastructure and widespread fiber-optic expansion. He stressed that better connectivity will boost Pakistan’s digital transformation and enable a seamless rollout of next-generation technologies.

With the 5G spectrum auction approaching, telecom operators and industry stakeholders are gearing up for a new era of connectivity that could revolutionize Pakistan’s digital landscape.