The federal government is preparing to hold an important meeting of the Auction Advisory Committee to decide the fate of Pakistan’s first 5G spectrum auction. Sources revealed that the meeting will likely take place later this week or early next week, once Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb returns to the country from his official visit abroad.
Committee to Finalize 5G Auction Roadmap
The upcoming meeting will set the roadmap for Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction, expected to be held in February or March next year. Officials confirmed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) 5G consultant will present a comprehensive report detailing the framework for both the auction procedure and the national rollout of next-generation mobile technology.
Detailed Report to Shape Pakistan’s 5G Strategy
This detailed presentation will form the foundation for Pakistan’s 5G policy and implementation plan. It will cover both technical and administrative aspects to ensure transparency and fairness. The government aims to create an auction process that encourages competition, attracts investment, and ensures efficient use of spectrum for future digital connectivity.
Report to Include Market and Spectrum Insights
The consultant’s report will include several key elements such as market readiness assessment, spectrum valuation, pricing strategy, and band allocation plans. It will also highlight rollout obligations, coverage goals, and policy recommendations. Together, these insights will help the government design a structured and balanced approach to 5G deployment across Pakistan.
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Delays Due to Legal and Corporate Hurdles
The government had originally planned to hold the 5G auction by the end of this year. However, delays occurred due to multiple reasons, including ongoing court cases concerning spectrum distribution and the merger between Ufone and Telenor. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is currently reviewing this merger following approval from the Competition Commission.
Merger Decision Expected Soon
Officials anticipate that a final verdict on the Ufone-Telenor merger will be announced within weeks. Once completed, this merger could remove one of the biggest obstacles blocking the 5G auction. Authorities believe resolving this issue will clear the way for a more competitive and financially stable telecom sector ready for 5G expansion.
Economic Challenges Slow 5G Progress
Experts warn that Pakistan’s 5G progress faces serious challenges, such as telecom operators’ financial struggles, heavy taxes, and expensive spectrum fees. Additionally, ongoing legal cases involving 146 MHz of spectrum continue to cause uncertainty. Weak digital infrastructure and low affordability of 5G-enabled devices also remain major concerns for a successful launch.
Industry Calls for Rational Spectrum Pricing
Telecom stakeholders have called on the government to adopt flexible pricing and payment methods for the 5G auction. They believe affordable spectrum rates and practical rollout conditions will attract investors, boost competition, and help Pakistan take a major step forward in digital transformation through accessible and widespread 5G connectivity.
