Pakistan is just months away from launching 5G services, with the federal cabinet set to approve spectrum auction recommendations. Officials say the move will significantly enhance internet connectivity and digital services across major cities.

The Ministry of IT has accelerated preparations following approval from the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC). An advisory committee has submitted recommendations for auctioning six spectrum bands, with final approval expected in the next cabinet meeting or through a circulation summary.

After cabinet approval, an information memorandum will be issued immediately, giving telecom companies 40 to 45 days to prepare for the auction. The auction is scheduled to be held before February 15, 2026, openly in the presence of media, with fixed minimum prices to ensure transparency.

Auction bands and priorities

Officials confirmed that six spectrum bands will be offered:

600 MHz band for initial 5G deployment.
2600 MHz band (prime 194 MHz) and 3500 MHz band, prioritized for rapid rollout.
Additional bands: 700, 1800, 2100, and 2300 MHz.

The government aims to auction more than 300 MHz spectrum, with 100 MHz specifically allocated for service improvement and 5G infrastructure expansion. Base prices for each band will vary, with final decisions taken by the government.

participation

Three major mobile service providers in Pakistan are expected to participate, while foreign companies can also join without restrictions. Officials highlighted that heavy investment will be required, including annual targets for installing new towers and fiberizing existing ones to improve network capacity and quality.

5G launch targets

The target for launching 5G services is within five to six months of the auction, covering major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Officials project that mobile internet speeds will rise from 4 Mbps to 25 Mbps in the first year.

Annual infrastructure targets will also focus on increasing tower numbers and fiberization to ensure high-quality, reliable 5G services.