Pakistan raised $507 million on Tuesday in a landmark 5G spectrum auction, selling 480 MHz of spectrum to three major telecom operators—Jazz, Zong, and Ufone—as the country gears up for next-generation mobile services.
The auction, conducted in three rounds, concluded with results announced by Major General (R) Hafeez ur Rehman, alongside Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Atta Tarar.
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, the sale included 2 lots in the 700 MHz band, all 5 lots in 2300 MHz, all 19 lots in 2600 MHz, and 22 of 28 lots in 3500 MHz, bringing the total spectrum allocated to 480 MHz out of a target of 597 MHz.
In terms of allocation, Jazz emerged as the largest buyer, securing 190 MHz, including 50 MHz in 3500 MHz, 70 MHz in 2600 MHz, 50 MHz in 2300 MHz, and 20 MHz in 700 MHz. Ufone acquired 180 MHz, mostly in the 3500 MHz (120 MHz) and 2600 MHz (60 MHz) bands, while Zong secured 110 MHz.
Speaking at the event, Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the government’s effort to ensure transparency in the auction, conducted live under directives from Shehbaz Sharif. She noted that Pakistan had reached a “choking point” in spectrum availability, and the new allocation would significantly enhance internet quality nationwide.
Officials said 5G services are expected to launch in five major cities by the end of 2026, with consumers likely to notice faster mobile internet speeds in the coming months as operators roll out network upgrades.
