5G Spectrum Auction Pakistan Approved, Sale Next Month

5G spectrum auction Pakistan has received final approval from the federal cabinet, and the auction will take place next month.

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecom Shiza Fatima Khawaja announced this during a press conference on Thursday. She said the government is bringing good news for telecom users across the country.

Shiza stated that the government is making serious efforts to resolve internet-related issues, and added that the Ministry of Interior fully cooperated to minimize internet shutdowns.

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She said Pakistan currently operates on 274 megahertz spectrum. Shiza Fatima confirmed that the federal cabinet has formally approved the 5G spectrum auction, which will be held next month.

She emphasized that the internet plays a key role in national development, and said Pakistan has become the world’s fourth-largest digital economy due to freelancers.

Support of Prime Minister

The minister said the prime minister and the finance ministry fully support these reforms. She added that the auction will take place on improved and investor-friendly terms.

The IT minister explained that seven spectrum bands are available for the auction. Out of these, five new bands will be offered. She said each band has different quality and technical features.

5G Smartphones in Easy Installment

Shiza Fatima announced that the government will provide 5G smartphones on easy monthly installments in Pakistan. She also said the cabinet has approved the MVNO policy.

Under this policy, MVNO companies can offer services using existing telecom networks. She said this step will bring more brands, increase competition, and attract foreign investment.

Shiza shared that over 2,000 MVNOs operate in more than 100 countries worldwide.

PTA Approved District-Level Internet License

The minister said PTA has approved district-level internet licenses. Village and town cable operators can now obtain licenses. She added that the federal and provincial governments have removed right-of-way charges for fiberization.

The IT minister Shiza Fatima said users will see a clear improvement in 4G services within three to four months after the 5G auction. She added that 5G services will start in major cities within six months.

She also confirmed that three submarine cables have already landed in Pakistan.

Telecom Sector and Highest Taxes

Shiza Fatima said the telecom sector faces the highest tax burden in Pakistan. She noted that revenue per user remains low, while internet prices stay cheaper than global rates. Shiza Fatima added that currency devaluation has increased operators’ costs.

She concluded by stating that internet usage in Pakistan has increased by 25 percent, and the 5G spectrum auction Pakistan will further strengthen the country’s digital future.