Spectrum Auction: A Policy Shift Toward a Faster, Connected Pakistan

Pakistan’s IMT Spectrum Auction Policy marks a major step toward next‑gen connectivity. Multi‑band release and flexible terms aim to speed rollout and expand affordable digital access.

Yesterday marked a significant milestone for Pakistan’s digital future as Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Ms. Shaza Khawaja, Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, and telecom industry leadership – including Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, JazzWorld; Hatem Bamatraf, President & Group CEO, PTCL.Official & Ufone 4G; Jahanzeb Khan, President & CEO, easypaisa digital bank; and Murtaza Ali, CEO, JazzCash – celebrated the issuance of the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) Spectrum Auction Policy Directive to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

Pakistan has taken a decisive step toward next-generation connectivity.

At a time when high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a national lifeline — for youth, innovation, governance, and economic growth — this directive reflects a clear shift toward long-term sector health, sustainability, and growth.

What stands out in the policy directive:

• Multi-band spectrum release across 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600, and 3500 MHz to meet rising broadband demand
• Technology-neutral spectrum to support current and future mobile generations
• Flexible payment options, including a one-year moratorium and deferred payments, to ease upfront financial pressure
• Spectrum rationalisation and sharing provisions to improve efficiency and network quality
• Phased rollout and enhanced Quality of Service (QoS) obligations, focused on faster deployment and better customer experience
• Affordability enablers, including smartphone adoption and support for local manufacturing

With people — especially youth — at the center, this policy lays the groundwork for a connectivity-led growth cycle, anchored in access, affordability, and service quality.

Marked alongside the country’s mobile network and digital financial services leadership, this moment underscores a shared commitment to translating policy into impact.

2026 now holds the promise of a stronger, faster rollout — ensuring the benefits of digital infrastructure reach communities across Pakistan in months, not years.

📄 Read the full policy directive here.