ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s 5G rollout gained significant momentum on Tuesday as the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved the auction of 600 MHz spectrum, positioning the country for its largest-ever spectrum sale and laying the foundation for commercial 5G services within six months.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that the ECC’s nod to the Spectrum Advisory Committee recommendations marks a major step toward enhancing internet connectivity and accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation under the Digital Pakistan initiative.
Shaza Fatima confirmed the government aims to complete the spectrum auction process by the first week of February 2026, with formal steps submitted to the federal cabinet shortly. Once cabinet approval is secured, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will issue an information memorandum to begin consultations and negotiations with telecom operators.
The planned 600 MHz spectrum sale is expected to expand capacity beyond the current 274 MHz available, which industry experts link to slow internet speeds and network congestion nationwide. To tackle these challenges and enhance service quality, telecom operators have pushed for measures like pricing in Pakistani rupees, longer payment terms, and tax incentives.
Telecom analysts say the additional spectrum will not only improve existing 3G and 4G networks but will unlock the infrastructure needed for widespread 5G deployment, capable of delivering higher speeds, lower latency, and support for advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and smart services.
The ECC decision also comes amid growing public pressure over deteriorating internet quality and calls from lawmakers for increased accountability and nationwide network assessments.
As Pakistan prepares for its 5G auction and rollout, the government is emphasizing investor-friendly auction terms and broader digital goals, hoping to spark innovation and economic growth across sectors.
