Pakistan Set to Embrace 5G Technology by April 2025, Confirms PTA Chairman

Pakistan’s digital landscape is on the brink of a major transformation as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed the launch date for 5G services. Speaking at the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, Chairman of PTA, Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman, announced that the much-anticipated 5G rollout will take place in April 2025. This announcement has sparked excitement across the nation as the government and telecom industry work together to bring next-generation connectivity to the masses.

Strategic Plans for 5G Implementation

The PTA chairman shared that the authority is not only focused on launching 5G but also on creating a competitive environment by attracting new players to the telecom sector. The upcoming auction is expected to be a pivotal event, with several companies already showing interest in securing spectrum licenses. “We are working hard to ensure a transparent and competitive auction process that will ultimately benefit the consumers,” stated Chairman Rehman.

While the country grapples with current internet disruptions due to submarine cable issues, the PTA remains optimistic about the 5G rollout timeline. The chairman assured the committee that the recovery work on the damaged cable is progressing well and is expected to be completed by August 27, restoring normal internet services across Pakistan.

Spectrum Availability and Pricing Strategy

One of the critical components of the 5G launch is the availability of spectrum. Currently, telecom operators in Pakistan utilize 265 MHz of spectrum, which supports 4G and other existing services. However, for the 5G network, the PTA plans to release an additional 567 MHz of spectrum. This expansion will not only accommodate the new technology but also improve overall network performance and user experience.

Chairman Rehman emphasized the importance of offering the spectrum at an affordable rate to encourage widespread adoption. He highlighted that the PTA is negotiating with the government to set a competitive price for the 5G spectrum. “Our aim is to make the spectrum affordable so that the benefits of 5G can reach all segments of society,” he said. Drawing comparisons with global standards, the chairman pointed out that Saudi Arabia auctioned its spectrum at $90,000 per megahertz, whereas Pakistan’s previous 4G spectrum was sold at $29 million per megahertz. The focus this time is to keep costs low, making the technology more accessible to the masses.

Broader Impacts of 5G Technology

The introduction of 5G is expected to have a transformative impact on Pakistan’s economy and society. From ultra-fast internet speeds to seamless connectivity, 5G will open up new possibilities in various fields, including healthcare, education, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The technology is also expected to drive innovation in industries, leading to increased productivity and economic growth.

Additionally, the 5G rollout is poised to attract significant foreign investment, as international companies look to tap into Pakistan’s expanding digital economy. With its strategic location and large, youthful population, Pakistan offers a lucrative market for tech companies and service providers. The successful implementation of 5G could position the country as a regional leader in technology and innovation.

With the official announcement of the 5G launch date, Pakistan is on the verge of entering a new era of connectivity. The PTA’s efforts to secure affordable spectrum and encourage competition among telecom operators are crucial steps in ensuring that the benefits of 5G reach every corner of the country. As the countdown to April 2025 begins, Pakistanis can look forward to a future where technology plays an even more significant role in their daily lives, driving progress and prosperity across the nation.