Pakistan Lags Behind Region in 5G Adoption, Spectrum Auction Seen as Key to Accelerate Rollout

Pakistan has fallen behind most regional countries in the rollout of 5G services, with only Afghanistan lagging further, highlighting a significant delay in the adoption of next-generation mobile technology. According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority officials, 5G was first launched globally in 2019, yet Pakistan continues to face severe spectrum shortages despite having a population exceeding 200 million and more than 200 million broadband users.

Currently, Pakistan operates with just 274 MHz of mobile spectrum, making it the most spectrum-constrained country in the region. While the spectrum allocated by the PTA is technology-neutral and can support both existing and future network technologies, limited availability and a shortage of compatible devices have slowed the deployment of 5G networks.

Officials emphasized that 5G technology extends beyond smartphones, supporting Internet of Things (IoT) networks, smart cities, and industrial applications through features such as network slicing, which enables customized network segments for different purposes. Pakistan is now seven years behind in adopting 5G, whereas countries like the United States have already started planning spectrum for 6G development.

The upcoming spectrum auction in Pakistan is being positioned as a critical step toward improving mobile network quality. The auction will be technology-neutral, allowing telecom operators to deploy spectrum for 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and future technologies. With the addition of nearly 600 MHz of spectrum, network congestion is expected to decrease, improving overall service performance and supporting faster 5G adoption.

Authorities noted that low 5G handset penetration will not delay the auction, as measures are being implemented to rationalize mobile device taxes and promote local manufacturing. Pakistan has 37 local mobile manufacturers, and the PTA is coordinating with them to produce 5G-enabled devices domestically.

Officials anticipate that once the spectrum is auctioned, 5G rollout in major cities could begin within six months, providing consumers and businesses with access to faster mobile connectivity, advanced IoT applications, and enhanced digital services.