Pakistan lauded globally for successful 5G spectrum auction

Pakistan has emerged as a regional leader in 5G rollout, with the global organization GSMA calling its recent spectrum auction a benchmark for emerging markets.

The country jumped from last place to eighth in the new Asia-Pacific 5G ranking, surpassing neighbors like India and Bangladesh.

The GSMA report praised Pakistan’s strategy in the successful 5G spectrum auction:

• Three telecom operators acquired 480 MHz of spectrum for Rs 142 billion.
• Total spectrum availability increased 2.8 times to 750 MHz, addressing Pakistan’s previous status as having the lowest spectrum globally.
• The auction featured multiple bands and reasonable reserve prices, contributing to its success.
• Payment in Pakistani rupees instead of dollars was also appreciated as a strategic move.

The organization called the auction a milestone for Digital Pakistan, noting that it sets an example for other emerging markets in the region.

Asia-pacific 5G ranking

Pakistan’s rise in the new GSMA ranking reflects its growing digital influence:

1. Japan – First
2. China – Second
3. Australia – Third
4. Philippines – Ahead of Pakistan
5. Malaysia
6. New Zealand
7. Singapore
8. Pakistan

Countries such as India, Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand, Bangladesh, and Indonesia now rank below Pakistan, signaling a major regional achievement.

Despite the success, GSMA highlighted several challenges:

• Mobile devices and internet services must be made affordable for broader adoption.
• Policy consistency and long-term planning are crucial to accelerate digital transformation.

The report emphasized that Pakistan’s 5G development will create new opportunities for citizens, boosting innovation and economic growth.