Pakistan is preparing to embrace a new digital era with the planned rollout of 5G services in seven major cities within the coming months. Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced the milestone during the ITCN Asia Expo in Karachi. She emphasized that this step is central to the “Digital Pakistan” initiative, which envisions faster, more reliable internet and greater global competitiveness.
Past Delays and Challenges Faced
Despite growing demand, Pakistan has struggled to adopt 5G on schedule. Limited spectrum allocation, weak infrastructure, and recurring internet outages have slowed progress. Experts have pointed out that although mobile usage and broadband subscriptions have surged, the essential backbone has not kept pace. In 2024, consultants advising the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority highlighted economic constraints, unresolved policy gaps, and regulatory inefficiencies as the primary barriers delaying nationwide adoption.
Strengthening the Internet Backbone
The minister further noted that the 5G rollout would not happen in isolation but alongside much-needed improvements to Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. Ongoing fiberization projects, expansion of submarine cable capacity, and steps toward making smartphones more affordable are all part of this broader strategy. These measures follow recent disruptions caused by cable damage near the Red Sea, which underscored the need for resilient and diversified connectivity solutions.
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Collaboration with Saudi Arabia
Pakistan’s 5G launch also ties into its growing cooperation with Saudi Arabia in the digital sphere. The Pakistan-Saudi agreement is expected to bring investments and expertise that will strengthen the country’s technological landscape. This collaboration aims to boost economic growth by expanding the scope of digital services, encouraging innovation, and creating opportunities for technology-driven businesses. The partnership aligns with regional ambitions of modernization and digital transformation.
Spectrum Auction Expected This Year
The government is also preparing to hold the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction by the end of this year. However, finalization depends on resolving pending issues, including spectrum litigation and technical regulatory matters. Authorities believe that once these hurdles are cleared, operators will have the clarity and confidence required to participate. The auction is a critical step to ensure that 5G services are commercially viable and competitively deployed nationwide.
Opportunities Through 5G Adoption
The arrival of 5G is set to unlock vast opportunities for Pakistan’s economy and society. Enhanced connectivity will enable smarter cities, advanced healthcare solutions, and stronger e-commerce platforms. For businesses, 5G will mean faster communication and more efficient operations, while individuals will benefit from seamless streaming and remote work capabilities. Ultimately, the rollout will help Pakistan keep pace with global technological progress and advance its vision for a digitally empowered future.
