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By Tanveer Ahmed :
Pakistan is currently executing a strategic roadmap to double the nation’s internet speeds by the middle of 2026, a goal centered on the upcoming 5G spectrum auction. Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, recently confirmed that the government is finalizing the groundwork with the assistance of international consultancy firm NERA. To encourage long-term industry growth, the auction’s pricing structure has been designed to allow telecom companies to reinvest their capital into infrastructure rather than just licensing fees.
The Ministry has already completed essential preparations, including auction design and spectrum planning, in close coordination with regulatory bodies. The initial rollout will prioritize high-density metropolitan areas where commercial demand and existing infrastructure are most robust. The government defines a successful outcome as the sale of more than 50% of the available 600 MHz spectrum. While mobile operators previously hesitated due to economic uncertainty, there is now a significant industry-wide consensus on the necessity of 5G for Pakistan’s digital future.
This launch is a foundational step for the country’s digital economy, transitioning 5G from a perceived luxury to a critical productivity tool. Even a modest initial nudge of 300 MHz is expected to substantially alleviate the current network congestion. However, the timeline remains sensitive; after the auction, it will likely take four to six months for the required hardware to be imported and installed.
Despite the optimism, the sector faces several hurdles, including high operating costs for telcos and the legal complexities surrounding the Telenor-PTCL merger. Additionally, the government is currently refining a regulatory framework for satellite-based internet services. Once this policy is finalized, global providers like Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are expected to receive the “green light” to operate. By addressing these connectivity gaps, Pakistan aims to modernize its public services and remain competitive in a technology-driven global market.
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