Pakistan is set to initiate its 5G pilot projects in major cities next week, following the successful completion of a spectrum auction that raised $510 million. This development marks a significant step in enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure.
Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced that the groundwork for launching 5G services has begun. She emphasized that the allocation of new spectrum would also bolster existing 4G services. The announcement was made at a ceremony hosted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), where telecom operators Jazz, Ufone, and Zong participated in the allocation of frequency slots.
The spectrum auction, one of the largest globally by volume, saw 480 MHz of spectrum sold, generating approximately $507 million. An additional $3 million was raised during the position assignment stage. The auction covered the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands, with Jazz securing the 700 MHz band without competition.
PTA Chairman, retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman, highlighted the auction’s transparency and fairness. He noted that this event was a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s telecommunication sector, urging operators to leverage the spectrum to enhance consumer services.
Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim reiterated the importance of mid- and high-band spectrums in strengthening capacity and supporting the rollout of 5G services. He also underscored the critical role of low-band frequencies like the 700 MHz band in expanding mobile broadband coverage.
In addition to telecom advancements, the government is establishing an Artificial Intelligence Council to guide AI policy and development. This initiative aims to foster innovation and strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy.
Furthermore, the government is finalizing a policy to facilitate smartphone purchases on installments, aiming to make mobile technology accessible to all societal segments. The local assembly and manufacturing of mobile devices are on the rise, reflecting growth in Pakistan’s tech sector.
With the landing of three new submarine cables, internet connectivity in Pakistan is set to improve significantly, underscoring the internet’s status as a basic necessity.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 14, 2026
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