Pakistan ready to launch 5G
Islamabad: Pakistan’s long awaited 5G spectrum auction has entered in final phase as major telecom operators fulfill financial requirements set by the PTA ahead of scheduled auction on March 10, 2026, also Azad Jammu and Kashmir authorities announced plans to launch 5G services in AJK from the same date.
Tariq Masaud
Sources told to reeldts, telecom operators Ufone & Zong have each deposited the required $15 million earnest money with regulator to qualify for participation in auction. The deadline for submission of earnest money is February 27, after which PTA will release official list of applicants.
Industry sources say telecom operator Jazz is also expected to submit the required amount, making its participation in auction highly likely.
The bid will be considered successful if at least 50 percent of the 597 MHz spectrum, or approximately 300 MHz, is sold. While the participation of at least three telecom operators will ensure competitive bidding and help meet the minimum threshold.
The bid be considered successful if at least 50 percent of the total 597 MHz spectrum, or approximately 300 MHz, is sold. While the participation by at least three telecom operators would ensure competitive bidding and help meet the minimum threshold.
The auction has gained additional attention following the recent purchase of Telenor Pakistan by PTCL, which operates Ufone. Officials say it will become clear after February 27 whether any new operator plans to participate in the 5G auction.
According to the official schedule, the PTA will publish the list of qualified bidders on March 3, 2026 followed by a pre-auction seminar on March 4, mock auction on 5th March, before final auction takes place on March 10.
Experts say 5G services in Pakistan will provide the telecom sector with high-speed internet, low-latency applications, and expansion digital infrastructure.
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