Pakistan Unlocks 600+ MHz Spectrum: A Game-Changer for 5G Auction

Pakistan Frees 600+ MHz Spectrum to Fast-Track 5G Auction

Pakistan is taking significant strides towards launching its next-generation mobile services (NGMS) and 5G, with the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) successfully freeing up crucial spectrum bands for commercial use. This move marks a major step forward in preparing for the anticipated 5G auction.

Through extensive collaboration with the defense forces, valuable portions of the 700 MHz band and the high-capacity 2300 MHz band have been released. Additionally, a substantial 285 MHz in the globally recognized 3500 MHz mid-band has been secured by re-farming existing Wireless Local Loop (WLL) services. These spectrum bands are vital for robust 5G connectivity.

To ensure the highest quality of spectrum, FAB has conducted nationwide monitoring surveys, successfully identifying and eliminating dozens of illegal links through the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The board has also undertaken cross-border spectrum surveys and initiated coordination with neighboring countries including India, Afghanistan, Iran, Oman, and the UAE. This international collaboration aims to minimize signal spillover and harmonize frequencies, paving the way for smooth 5G rollouts across the region.

Details shared with Parliament by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), FAB, and PTA confirm that FAB’s 50th meeting approved the availability of multiple frequency bands for the upcoming 5G auction. These include: 700 MHz (2×15 MHz), 1800 MHz (2×3.6 MHz), 2100 MHz (2×20 MHz), 2300 MHz (50 MHz), 2600 MHz (194 MHz), 3500 MHz (285 MHz), 24 GHz (3.082 GHz), and 39 GHz (4 GHz).

While FAB has made a substantial 606 MHz of spectrum available for auction, a portion of 161.6 MHz currently remains under litigation. A significant challenge lies in the dispute over 140 MHz in the 2600 MHz band, which is globally recognized as a prime band for both 4G and 5G services. Ongoing court cases also affect the 2100 MHz and 1800 MHz bands, creating hurdles that could delay the full release process and potential operator participation.

Addressing these challenges, the Advisory Committee on spectrum auction is actively analyzing two critical issues: the finalization of the PTCL–Telenor merger and the resolution of the pending litigation in the 2600 MHz band. The committee has strongly recommended a swift resolution of these matters, emphasizing their importance for the national interest and for accelerating Pakistan’s journey towards a full 5G launch.