ISLAMABAD, Sept 2, 2025 – Pakistan 5G spectrum auction has finally been approved, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directing that the long-awaited process be completed by December 2025. The announcement was made during a Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication session, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan.
The decision comes after delays linked to telecom mergers, litigation over prime frequency bands, and broader economic challenges. Despite these hurdles, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Pakistan does not lag behind regional peers in the race for 5G connectivity.
Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction: Spectrum Availability and Framework
The auction advisory committee, led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, will convene on Monday to review international consultant proposals. According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB), a total of 606 MHz of spectrum will be on offer, although 154 MHz remains under litigation.
PTA’s DG Licensing Amer Shahzad stressed the importance of mid-band frequencies—particularly 2600 MHz for 4G/5G and 3500 MHz for 5G—to enhance coverage and service quality. He highlighted that Pakistan’s current IMT spectrum allocation remains far below regional benchmarks, creating an urgent need for spectrum expansion.
Former IT Minister Anusha Rahman proposed that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) be included in the committee to ensure transparency in the Pakistan 5G spectrum auction.
Delays Threaten Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction Timeline
The committee was briefed on ongoing stay orders and litigation that continue to stall spectrum availability. The next hearing is scheduled for September 17. Lawmakers expressed concern that prolonged delays could harm Pakistan’s digital readiness and economic competitiveness.
Industry uncertainty has been compounded by reports of Telenor Pakistan’s potential exit from the market. Lawmakers argued that such a move could impact investor confidence and 5G rollout. Anusha Rahman criticized policy failures, saying they discouraged global telecom firms from sustaining operations in Pakistan.
The committee demanded a detailed update on the proposed Telenor–Ufone merger, stressing its significance for industry consolidation and the upcoming Pakistan 5G spectrum auction. The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has been summoned to review merger implications on competition.
Cybercrime Concerns Parallel Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction Debate
In addition to the auction, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) presented alarming findings on digital fraud. Officials revealed that scams have cost Pakistani citizens more than Rs. 3 billion. Authorities dismantled 63 illegal call centers, recovered Rs. 40 million, and arrested nearly 450 individuals.
Loan apps charging up to 1,800 percent interest rates were highlighted as a major exploitation tool, many operated by non-banking entities. Lawmakers raised concerns about online gambling platforms and misinformation campaigns spreading on social media.
The NCCIA has pledged to intensify digital surveillance during sensitive events and strengthen collaboration with banks to curb ATM skimming. The committee directed the agency to present a comprehensive cybercrime report in its next session, emphasizing the urgent need to rebuild public trust in digital platforms.
Audit Findings Against Telecom Operators
The committee also reviewed audit findings alleging that Jazz overcharged customers by Rs. 6.58 billion through quarterly tariff hikes of up to 15 percent. Audit authorities criticized PTA for failing to submit updated approval records.
While PTA claimed all tariff revisions were duly processed, committee members voiced concern over weak regulatory oversight. Lawmakers warned that unchecked practices could erode consumer trust ahead of the Pakistan 5G spectrum auction.
The committee instructed both PTA and the Auditor General’s Office to submit full documentation at the next hearing.
PTCL Governance and Audit Issues
Lawmakers also criticized the Ministry of IT for failing to disclose PTCL and Ufone board members’ details, calling PTCL’s board a “white elephant.” Officials from the Auditor General’s office revealed that PTCL has repeatedly resisted audits, arguing that as part of Etisalat Group, it is not bound by public audit rules.
Senators, however, stressed that PTCL’s strategic role in the telecom sector requires stronger transparency and accountability. A privilege motion may be moved if details are not provided in time.
Outlook: Pakistan 5G Spectrum Auction as a Turning Point
Despite industry uncertainty, officials assured that Telenor Pakistan will be consulted before finalizing the 5G package. PTA emphasized that resolving mergers and litigation is essential to ensuring a smooth auction process.
Industry analysts say the Pakistan 5G spectrum auction could be a turning point for the telecom sector. If managed transparently and without further delays, the auction could bridge Pakistan’s spectrum gap with regional peers, attract fresh investment, and expand digital inclusion.
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With Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s approval now in place, all eyes are on whether Pakistan can meet its December 2025 deadline and seize the opportunity to unlock the full potential of 5G technology.
