The federal government has issued a formal policy directive for the auction of radio frequency spectrum, setting the stage for enhanced next generation mobile services across Pakistan in line with the Digital Pakistan vision. The directive, released by Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, underscores the growing pressure on existing mobile networks as broadband subscriptions continue to rise sharply. Officials noted that the number of broadband subscribers in the country has crossed 152 million, reflecting a sustained increase in demand for high speed and reliable mobile broadband services at the national level.
According to the policy directive, multiple portions of radio spectrum have been identified and made available for auction across key frequency bands. These include spectrum in the 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands, which are commonly used internationally to support advanced mobile broadband and IMT services. The government emphasized that radio frequency spectrum is a scarce national resource and must be assigned and utilized in a manner that serves the public interest while remaining fully compliant with Pakistan’s international obligations related to advanced mobile technologies. Officials stated that careful allocation of spectrum is essential to ensure efficient use, improved quality of service and sustainable growth of the telecom sector.
Under the directive, PTA has been instructed to conduct a transparent, competitive and market based auction process for the identified spectrum. The authority will be responsible for issuing an Information Memorandum that will outline the auction design, eligibility criteria, participation requirements and other procedural details. As per the policy, existing cellular mobile operators as well as potential new entrants will be eligible to take part in the auction, subject to applicable spectrum caps. The directive specifies that 15 MHz of paired spectrum in the 700 MHz band, 3.6 MHz paired in the 1800 MHz band and 20 MHz paired in the 2100 MHz band will be offered. In addition, significant unpaired spectrum in the 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands will also be included, providing operators with a range of low, mid and high band options to support different network deployment strategies.
Government officials indicated that the auction is expected to enhance mobile broadband capacity and help address persistent network congestion, particularly in densely populated urban areas where data usage has grown rapidly. The availability of additional spectrum across multiple bands is also seen as an important step toward improving coverage, boosting data speeds and ensuring better quality of service for consumers. The inclusion of spectrum suitable for next generation technologies is intended to strengthen Pakistan’s readiness for 5G, while also allowing operators to optimize and expand existing 4G and earlier generation networks. Officials reiterated that the policy framework has been designed to balance commercial viability with public interest considerations, ensuring that spectrum assignment supports broader digital connectivity goals and economic activity. Further details regarding auction timelines and implementation are expected to be shared by PTA following the issuance of the Information Memorandum.
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