Pakistan is now heading towards its long-awaited 5G Auction, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially endorsing it to be completed by December 2025. The process that took so long was repeatedly delayed in the face of telecom mergers, wrangling of spectrum frequencies and economic challenges which slowed the digital pace of the sector.
The most recent evolution was disclosed at a Senate Standing Committee briefing session under the chairmanship of Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, where the Special Secretary of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication announced the news.
In order to speed up the process, the auction advisory committee headed by the Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb is scheduled to have a meeting on Monday. To be able to have a competitive and transparent bidding structure, the committee will consider proposals written by an international consultant.
Read more: 5G Auction Delayed 4 Months Over Merger Uncertainty
According to the information provided by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) a total of 606 MHz spectrum has already been allotted in the next sale. Nevertheless, 154 MHz remains in litigation, and final availability has yet to be determined by the law.
The insiders of the industry think the move will open new frontiers to telecom operators in the country, spur investment, and prepare faster digital transformation in Pakistan. It is hoped that after the 5G Auction is finalized the government will place the nation in a better position to achieve next-generation connectivity and economic development.
