The Government of Pakistan has formally approved the base prices for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, marking a major step toward the expansion of next-generation mobile and broadband services across the country. The decision comes amid rapidly growing demand for high-speed internet, driven by an increasing number of mobile and broadband subscribers and the country’s broader digital transformation goals.
According to official sources, the government has issued a comprehensive policy directive outlining the auction framework for several key radio frequency bands. These include the 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz bands, which are considered critical for delivering advanced mobile connectivity, including 5G services.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has been tasked with managing and conducting the auction in a transparent and competitive manner. Under the approved plan, the PTA will auction 15 MHz of paired spectrum in the 700 MHz band, along with 50 MHz of unpaired spectrum across the 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz bands. These frequency bands are expected to play a central role in improving network coverage, increasing data speeds, and enhancing overall service quality.
The base price for 1 MHz of paired spectrum in the 700 MHz band has been set at USD 6.5 million, while 1 MHz of paired spectrum in the 2100 MHz band will carry a base price of USD 14 million. For unpaired spectrum, the base prices have been fixed at USD 1 million per MHz for the 2300 MHz band, USD 1.25 million for the 2600 MHz band, and USD 0.65 million for the 3500 MHz band. These prices reflect international benchmarks as well as local market conditions.
Both existing and new cellular mobile operators will be eligible to participate in the auction, ensuring healthy competition within the telecom sector. The PTA will issue a detailed information memorandum outlining eligibility requirements, auction procedures, spectrum usage rules, and technical standards.
Importantly, the auction will be technology-neutral. This means the allocated spectrum will not be limited to a single generation of mobile technology. Operators will be free to deploy 4G, 5G, or future technologies, provided they comply with Pakistan’s regulatory framework and international standards.
To ease financial pressure on operators, the government has approved a one-year payment moratorium for successful bidders. After this period, spectrum fees can be paid either upfront or through a deferred payment mechanism, with interest linked to the Karachi Interbank Offered Rate.
The policy directive also includes measures to encourage local smartphone manufacturing and infrastructure development, both of which are expected to accelerate 5G adoption and strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy.
