Pakistan to Announce 5G Spectrum Policy Soon

Pakistan is set to announce its long-awaited 5G spectrum policy to enhance digital access nationwide. IT Minister Shaza Fatima said the upcoming policy aims to boost telecom infrastructure, expand mobile broadband, and make smartphones affordable for all citizens.

Read more: Unlocking Spectrum Key to Digital Pakistan

Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Pakistan Minister, Shaza Khawaja announced that Pakistan will soon unveil its 5G spectrum policy to accelerate nationwide connectivity and strengthen digital infrastructure. Speaking at the 26th South Asia Telecommunication Regulators Council in Islamabad, she said the government plans to auction over 600 MHz of spectrum to telecom operators.

“The government will soon unveil the 5G spectrum policy,” Fatima said, as reported by Radio Pakistan, adding that the move will not only upgrade existing 3G and 4G networks but also introduce advanced 5G services across major cities.

She noted that a telecom infrastructure-sharing framework has been approved, alongside new satellite communication regulations that will pave the way for satellite-based Internet services.

Fatima said the government remains committed to expanding digital inclusion, revealing plans for a “Smartphones for All” initiative to make mobile devices affordable for citizens. She shared that Pakistan now has 200 million mobile subscribers and 150 million mobile broadband users, with data traffic increasing by 70 percent in the past five years.

The minister also highlighted that the telecom sector recorded 17 percent year-on-year revenue growth, while e-commerce reached nearly $7.7 billion and is projected to cross $10 billion next year.