Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction 2026 Overview
Pakistan is set to enter the era of fifth-generation (5G) mobile services as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued the Information Memorandum (IM) for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction. This is a major step following the federal government’s policy directive to introduce next-generation mobile technology in the country.
The 5G rollout is expected to revolutionize internet speeds, mobile services, and digital applications, giving both consumers and businesses access to faster and more reliable connectivity.
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Details of the Spectrum Bands & Participation Rules
The IM provides detailed terms and conditions for the auction, including:
- Total Spectrum Offered: 597.2 MHz across six bands.
- 700 MHz: 30 MHz
- 1800 MHz: 7.2 MHz
- 2100 MHz: 40 MHz
- 2300 MHz: 50 MHz
- 2600 MHz: 190 MHz
- 3500 MHz: 280 MHz (critical for 5G deployment)
- Rollout Obligations: Each telecom operator must install at least 1,000 new 5G-enabled cell sites every year.
- Phase-wise Deployment: 5G services will initially launch in Islamabad and all four provincial capitals.
- Tower Migration: At least 10% of existing towers in these cities must be upgraded to 5G in the first phase.
- Service Standards:
- Minimum 4G speed increased from 4 Mbps to 20 Mbps
- Fixed broadband minimum speed raised from 4 Mbps to 10 Mbps
- 5G minimum speed requirement: 50 Mbps
These rules aim to ensure high-quality service, fair competition, and rapid nationwide 5G deployment.
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Timeline for Auction & Rollout
“PTA ne stakeholders ko 20 din ka waqt diya hai IM par feedback dene ke liye, aur final memorandum ke baad auction conduct hoga.”
- Feedback Period: Telecom operators have 20 days to provide suggestions and feedback on the IM.
- Final IM Release: Scheduled after January 26, 2026, incorporating stakeholder input.
- Auction: The auction will follow the final IM, offering spectrum to eligible telecom operators under a transparent framework.
- Rollout Phase: Initial 5G deployment will focus on major cities, with further expansion planned across the country.
This structured timeline ensures that 5G is rolled out quickly without compromising service quality.
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Eligible Telecom Companies & Bidding Process
The auction will be open to existing cellular operators and potential new entrants, provided they meet PTA’s eligibility requirements:
- Must comply with legal and financial criteria set by PTA.
- Must adhere to rollout and service obligations outlined in the IM.
- Follow a competitive bidding process for spectrum allocation across six frequency bands.
- License tenure and spectrum usage will be technology-neutral, allowing operators flexibility in network deployment.
The bidding process is designed to ensure transparency, fair competition, and optimal allocation of spectrum resources.
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Expected Benefits of 5G for Internet & Mobile Users
The 5G rollout in Pakistan is expected to:
- Deliver ultra-fast mobile internet with minimum speeds of 50 Mbps.
- Improve fixed broadband speeds in urban and semi-urban areas.
- Support advanced digital services like cloud gaming, virtual reality (VR), and AI-powered applications.
- Enable smart city solutions, IoT connectivity, and e-commerce growth.
- Reduce network congestion and improve overall consumer experience.
For businesses, 5G will provide the infrastructure needed for digital transformation, supporting innovation, automation, and remote work technologies.
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Final Summary: What Consumers & Businesses Should Know
- Pakistan is officially preparing for 5G services, with PTA setting clear rules and obligations.
- 597.2 MHz spectrum will be auctioned across six bands, including the crucial 3500 MHz for high-speed services.
- Telecom operators must meet installation, migration, and speed standards to participate.
- Initial rollout will cover Islamabad and provincial capitals, later expanding nationwide.
- Consumers can expect faster internet, better mobile experience, and access to modern digital applications.
The 5G spectrum auction is a game-changer for Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, enabling faster internet, smarter technologies, and economic growth driven by modern telecommunications infrastructure.
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FAQs
Q1: What is the total spectrum offered in the 5G auction?
A1: 597.2 MHz across six frequency bands, including the critical 3500 MHz band.
Q2: When will the final Information Memorandum be released?
A2: After January 26, 2026, incorporating stakeholder feedback.
Q3: Which cities will get 5G first?
A3: Islamabad and all four provincial capitals.
Q4: What is the minimum speed for 5G?
A4: 50 Mbps for mobile users.
Q5: Who can participate in the auction?
A5: Both existing cellular operators and eligible new entrants, meeting PTA’s requirements.
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