The anticipated launch of 5G technology in Pakistan has faced another delay as authorities prioritize achieving a 60% penetration rate for 4G services in the country. Minister of IT and Telecommunication, Syed Aminul Haque, revealed during an interview with ProPakistani that the current 4G penetration rate in Pakistan is below the desired threshold, and it needs to be increased before deploying higher technology like 5G.
To address this, the government has decided to focus on enhancing 4G coverage before proceeding with the rollout plans for 5G. Minister Aminul Haque stated that discussions are underway with telecom companies regarding the launch of 5G, and he will be meeting with the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) to address policy-related matters and any impediments to the implementation of 5G technology in the country.
When asked about the affordability of spectrum rates, Minister Aminul Haque expressed support for reducing spectrum costs to provide more benefits to consumers. He mentioned that he will soon convene a meeting with the advisory committee on the auction of telecom services to discuss this issue.
Regarding the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, Minister Aminul Haque mentioned that the bill is nearing completion, and the ministry expects to present it to the federal cabinet within the next 10 days. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for establishing a monument
