Pakistan Telecommunication Authority PTA has made it mandatory for telecom operators to participate in both the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum bands in the upcoming 5G auction, in a move aimed at ensuring that 5G services launched in the country are commercially viable and capable of delivering a meaningful user experience. Officials said the decision reflects a policy shift toward a more structured rollout strategy, as opposed to allowing operators to selectively bid on spectrum that may not immediately support full scale 5G deployment. While several countries introduced 5G without making specific bands compulsory, PTA has opted for a stricter framework to accelerate network readiness and minimize delays between spectrum allocation and service availability.
Under the approved auction framework, the 2600 MHz band can be used for both 4G and 5G services, offering flexibility for operators to strengthen existing networks while preparing for next generation services. In contrast, the 3500 MHz band has been reserved exclusively for 5G deployment and is widely regarded as a globally harmonized band for high capacity 5G services. Although telecom companies may bid on other available spectrum bands depending on their business strategies, participation in these two bands is compulsory. PTA officials noted that this requirement is intended to establish a functional 5G ecosystem soon after the auction, rather than limiting next generation connectivity to pilot projects or fragmented coverage in select urban zones.
To ensure transparency and operational readiness, PTA will conduct a mock auction prior to the final bidding process. The exercise will test the auction software and provide telecom operators with practical exposure to the bidding mechanism. Detailed bidding manuals will be shared in advance, and the mock session will allow participants to familiarize themselves with both technical and procedural requirements. Officials said this preparatory step is designed to reduce uncertainties and ensure smooth execution once the actual auction begins.
According to PTA, all six spectrum bands identified for allocation will be made available on the auction day. The bidding process may conclude within a single day or extend over two or three days, depending on the level of competition and interest across different bands. February 27 has been set as the deadline for submission of bid documents, and each participating operator is required to submit a bank guarantee of USD 15 million. PTA will also finalize on the same date the number of companies eligible to participate in the auction, marking a critical step toward the country’s formal entry into commercial 5G services.
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