Pakistan Nears 5G Launch as Spectrum Auction Awaits Approval
Pakistan is moving closer to the launch of 5G services as the federal cabinet is expected to approve the 5G spectrum auction. The recommendations for the auction, including the auction model and minimum pricing, have already been submitted for approval. Once cleared, this step will formally begin Pakistan’s transition toward next-generation mobile connectivity.
Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction & Launch Summary
Total Spectrum
600 MHz across six bands
Priority Bands
2600 MHz & 3500 MHz
Expected Launch
Major cities in 2026
Auction Status
Awaiting cabinet approval
- Federal cabinet approval is the final step before auction launch
- Auction model and base prices already finalized
- Marks the formal start of Pakistan’s 5G rollout
- 600 MHz spectrum to be auctioned across six frequency bands
- Separate base prices for each band
- At least 100 MHz required for effective 5G services
| Band | Primary Use |
|---|---|
| 700 MHz | Wide coverage |
| 2600 MHz | High data capacity |
| 3500 MHz | Core 5G services |
- Information memorandum issued within 5–6 days of approval
- Operators get 40–45 days to submit bids
- Auction completion expected before February 15
- Open bidding with media coverage
- Initial 5G launch planned for 2026
- Cities include Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi
- Internet speeds to improve from 4 Mbps to 25 Mbps over time
- Annual expansion of towers and fiber infrastructure
- Auction focuses on allocating spectrum for nationwide 5G
- Foreign telecom companies are eligible to participate
- 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz are key for performance
- 5G services expected to begin in major cities in 2026
Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima has confirmed that key decisions related to the auction will be finalized after cabinet approval. Authorities aim to ensure a transparent and competitive process that supports long-term investment in the telecom sector and strengthens the country’s digital foundation.
Key points at this stage include:
- Federal cabinet approval of auction recommendations
- Finalization of the auction model and base prices
- Start of the formal 5G rollout process
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Details of the 5G Spectrum Auction in Pakistan
The government plans to auction a total of 600 MHz spectrum across six frequency bands. These bands include 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority will prioritize the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands, targeting the sale of more than 300 MHz of spectrum.
Each band will have a separate base price to ensure fair participation. Experts state that at least 100 MHz spectrum is required for efficient 5G services, and pricing will be kept competitive to attract both local and foreign telecom operators.
| Frequency Band | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 700 MHz | Wider coverage |
| 2600 MHz | High-capacity data |
| 3500 MHz | Core 5G services |
Timeline and Participation in the Auction
After approval, an official information memorandum will be issued within five to six days. Telecom companies will then have around 40 to 45 days to prepare and submit bids. The auction is expected to be completed before February 15 and will be conducted openly with media presence.
Pakistan’s three major mobile operators are expected to participate, while foreign companies will also be eligible. This open structure is designed to encourage competition and ensure transparency.
Auction timeline highlights include:
- Information memorandum release within days
- Auction completion before February 15
- Open bidding with media coverage
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Key 5G Launch Plans and Digital Infrastructure
According to officials, 5G services are likely to launch in 2026 in major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Internet quality targets will improve gradually, from 4 Mbps in the first year to 25 Mbps in later phases. The plan also includes installing new mobile towers and fiberizing existing ones annually.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed that the ECC has approved the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee. The government views high-speed internet as the backbone of the Digital Pakistan program.
| City | Expected 5G Launch |
|---|---|
| Islamabad | 2026 |
| Lahore | 2026 |
| Karachi | 2026 |
FAQs
What is the focus of the 5G spectrum auction in Pakistan?
It aims to allocate 600 MHz spectrum to enable reliable and high-speed 5G services nationwide.
When will the 5G auction be completed?
The auction is expected to conclude before February 15.
Which bands are most important for 5G?
The 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands are prioritized for core 5G performance.
Will foreign companies participate in the auction?
Yes, foreign telecom companies are eligible to submit bids.
When will 5G services start in Pakistan?
Officials expect initial 5G services to launch in major cities in 2026.
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