The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially issued 5G licenses to three telecom companies, marking a major step toward the launch of next-generation mobile services in the country.
The license distribution ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s House and was attended by Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima, the PTA Chairman, CEOs of telecom companies, and members of the federal cabinet.
During the event, PTA formally handed over 5G licenses to the three telecom operators, bringing Pakistan closer to the rollout of 5G services, which are now expected to begin in the near future.
Earlier, PTA Director General Aamir Shahzad said bids were placed for two out of six available spectrum bands in the first phase. All three telecom companies participated in the bidding process.
He said 190 MHz spectrum was available in the 2600 MHz band during the first round. PTA added that additional bidding in this band will determine the final price.
The authority said 280 MHz spectrum was available in the 3500 MHz band.
Speaking to media, Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja termed the auction a historic opportunity for Pakistan’s digital future.
She said 5G services are expected to start by the end of this year in five cities, including Islamabad.
The minister said Pakistan has been allocated 600 MHz spectrum for 5G. At present, the country operates on only 274 MHz spectrum.
She added that 5G will strengthen Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. Key sectors such as agriculture, health, education and defence depend on high-speed internet.
Officials say the technology will also support artificial intelligence, cloud services, fintech, remote work, startups and digital exports.
Pakistan currently has more than 200 million telecom subscribers and over 150 million broadband users. Experts believe this large user base makes the country ready for the next phase of digital transformation.
PTA officials say around 98 per cent of people using 3G and 4G services will benefit from improved connectivity once 5G services roll out.
Also read: PTA launches 5G spectrum auction, services likely in five cities by year-end
