Will PTA oversee 5G spectrum auction in Pakistan?

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has received five proposals from international consultants to oversee the 5G spectrum auction in the country, with the process expected to be completed within the ongoing fiscal year.

What challenges will the PTA face in the 5G spectrum auction?

However, to introduce commercial 5G services, an additional 300 MHz of spectrum will need to be auctioned. Another challenge facing the PTA in the upcoming 5G spectrum auction is the potential reduction in market competition, as Telenor has already decided to exit Pakistan.

When will the 5G spectrum auction take place?

Process expected to be completed within the current fiscal year Meanwhile, PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman, a retired major general, recently informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications that the 5G spectrum auction was under consideration and was likely to take place by March 2025.

Is 5G a lucrative auction opportunity?

At a recent event, Mr Ibrahim remarked that while customers view 5G as simply faster internet and governments see it as a lucrative auction opportunity, telecom operators do not share this enthusiasm, questioning the practicality and benefits of the new technology.

Should 5G spectrum be released at low rates?

While some officials in the IT ministry support releasing additional spectrum for 5G at low rates to encourage growth, the finance ministry has insisted on fostering strong competition among telecom operators to maximise the auction’s value. The advisory committee overseeing the auction process is headed by the finance minister.