ISLAMABAD

Pakistan’s largest mobile operator Jazz is preparing to begin commercial 5G services in a phased rollout starting as early as June or July 2026, as the company accelerates a multi-billion-dollar network expansion plan.

Kazim Mujtaba, President of Jazz Pakistan, said in an informal media briefing that the operator will invest around $1 billion over the next three years in spectrum acquisition and network development to support the transition to next-generation connectivity.

He said Jazz is currently conducting 5G trials across 180 mobile sites, while necessary equipment is expected to arrive in Pakistan by the end of May, paving the way for large-scale deployment.

The company plans to upgrade nearly 2,000 to 2,500 mobile towers within a year to improve network capacity and user experience. Officials said the upgrades will also enhance existing 4G performance, helping reduce complaints related to slow mobile internet speeds.

Jazz secured the largest share in the recent spectrum auction, including 70 MHz in the 2600 MHz band for 5G services, along with additional holdings in the 700 MHz “gold band” aimed at improving rural coverage, and the 2300 MHz band to support future capacity needs.

Mujtaba said average mobile data usage in Pakistan has reached 8–10 GB per user, driven by rising consumption on platforms such as YouTube and TikTok, with demand expected to grow further as digital adoption accelerates.

He added that the company does not plan to introduce separate pricing for 5G services, with 4G and 5G packages expected to remain at the same tariff levels to avoid placing additional financial burden on consumers.

Analysts say the planned rollout marks one of the most significant steps toward next-generation connectivity in Pakistan’s telecom sector, as operators prepare for a gradual shift toward high-speed mobile broadband services.