Pakistan has auctioned 480 megahertz (MHz) of fifth-generation telecom spectrum for $507 million, a move officials say will pave the way for faster mobile internet services across the country.
The auction was conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to allocate frequencies required for telecom operators to deploy 5G networks.
PTA chairman Hafeez-ur-Rehman said that 480 MHz out of a total 595 MHz spectrum on offer was sold during the live bidding process.
Among the telecom operators, Jazz acquired 190 MHz of spectrum, while Ufone secured 180 MHz. Chinese-owned operator Zong purchased 110 MHz.
Pakistan is one of the world’s largest telecom markets with more than 190 million mobile users, though most networks currently operate on fourth-generation infrastructure. The introduction of 5G has faced delays in recent years due to regulatory and economic challenges.
Authorities say 5G services will initially be launched in major cities including Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta before expanding to other areas.
According to Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the government is also encouraging the adoption of 5G-compatible devices. Officials estimate that around 95 percent of mobile phones used in Pakistan are locally manufactured, while premium models such as iPhones and Pixel devices are imported.
Under the rollout plan, telecom operators are expected to add around 3,000 new network sites annually to support the expansion of next-generation mobile services. Regulators say consumer protection will remain a priority as the country moves toward faster digital connectivity.
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