Pakistan is moving closer to launching its 5G network as the Frequency Allocation Board has identified 606 MHz of spectrum across six key bands. These include the 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600, and 3500 MHz bands. The expansion more than doubles the country’s current spectrum capacity, creating a strong base for next-generation internet and digital transformation across industries and communities.
Spectrum Advisory Committee Formed
To manage this major step, the government has established a Spectrum Advisory Committee under the Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb. This committee will lead on policy, auction design, and rollout timelines. Its task is to ensure that Pakistan’s 5G journey adheres to global standards, promotes fair competition, and guarantees nationwide connectivity for both urban and rural areas through transparent and efficient procedures.
PTA Partners with International Consultant
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has partnered with the US-based consultancy NERA to develop a detailed roadmap for the auction. The consultant will prepare strategies on spectrum valuation, auction structure, and investor attraction. Their final recommendations will be reviewed by the advisory committee before the policy directive is issued, setting the stage for the auction expected within the coming months.
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Government Focus on Infrastructure Readiness
Authorities are now focusing on ensuring infrastructure readiness to support 5G rollout. The government aims to boost tower sharing among operators, improve base station fiberization, and remove right-of-way charges to lower costs. These efforts will make network expansion smoother and more cost-effective, allowing operators to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity even in remote parts of the country.
IT Parks and Digital Innovation Initiatives
The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication is also developing two large IT parks under the Public Sector Development Programme. These parks will promote digital entrepreneurship, attract global investors, and provide startups with advanced facilities. By combining these parks with the upcoming 5G ecosystem, Pakistan aims to build a thriving digital economy that fosters innovation and skilled employment opportunities.
Incentives for ICT and IT Exporters
To strengthen the ICT industry, the government has reinforced various incentives. These include 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, a 0.25% final tax on IT exports, and three-year tax credits for PSEB-registered startups. IT exporters can now retain 50% of their foreign earnings in Special Foreign Currency Accounts, helping them make global payments easily and manage business operations more efficiently.
Collaborative Efforts to Ease the Business Environment
Dedicated working groups involving the FBR, SBP, MoITT, and private sector associations are addressing issues faced by the IT and telecom industry. Their collaboration aims to simplify policies, improve business conditions, and encourage investment. With these reforms and the upcoming 5G auction, Pakistan is taking bold steps toward digital transformation, modern connectivity, and economic progress.
