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ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the federal cabinet has approved recommendations for the country’s largest-ever spectrum auction, which will improve 3G and 4G services while enabling the commercial rollout of 5G technology in Pakistan for the first time.
Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced this in a joint press conference. The finance minister stated that the ECC meeting approved the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee, based on a report by international consultant National Economic Research Associates (NERA).
He described it as a significant step toward advancing the Digital Pakistan vision. Unsold spectrum represents a financial loss for the country, while its auction will promote financial and digital inclusion. The recommendations cover spectrum pricing, payment terms, and auction design, tailored to Pakistan’s local needs.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja revealed that approximately 600 MHz of spectrum will be auctioned—far more than in previous auctions. This will reduce network congestion, improve internet speeds, and make 5G services possible. She said efforts are underway to complete the auction by late January or early February, with 5G rollout expected in four to six months.
She added that the recommendations will now be presented to the federal cabinet, after which the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will issue an information memorandum and consult stakeholders. This initiative is part of the Digital Nation Pakistan Act 2025 and the Connect 2030 Plan, aimed at promoting digital services across sectors including industry, health, education, and agriculture.
