Pakistan’s federal government has announced plans to introduce fifth-generation, or 5G, mobile services across the country in the near future. The announcement signals a major step in Pakistan’s digital development, as authorities seek faster internet speeds and wider access for businesses and consumers.
The commitment was shared during a joint press conference in Islamabad by Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Officials said the groundwork for 5G services is already underway and that key regulatory steps will be completed within the coming months.
Government Sets Timeline for 5G Rollout
Speaking to reporters, IT Minister Shaza Fatima said Pakistan could see the formal introduction of 5G services very soon. According to her, the government aims to complete the required process within the next four to six months.
She explained that preparations include policy approvals, spectrum planning, and coordination with stakeholders in the telecom sector. Once these steps are completed, Pakistan will be in a position to move towards commercial 5G services.
The minister stressed that the government views 5G as a critical component of the country’s future digital economy. She added that the technology would support innovation, efficiency, and improved service delivery across multiple sectors.
Spectrum Auction Planned for Early 2026
A central part of the 5G launch is the allocation of radio frequency spectrum. Shaza Fatima confirmed that the government plans to auction 600 megahertz of spectrum as part of this process.
She said the authorities are working towards completing the spectrum auction in the first week of February 2026. This auction will allow telecom operators to acquire the necessary frequencies to deploy 5G networks.
Spectrum auctions are considered a crucial step in telecom expansion. They determine not only the pace of rollout but also the quality of services that operators can offer to users.
Cabinet Review and Industry Consultation
The IT minister also said that recommendations from the Spectrum Advisory Committee will soon be presented to the federal cabinet. These recommendations are expected to guide policy decisions related to spectrum pricing, allocation, and usage.
In addition, the government plans to consult widely with telecom companies and other stakeholders. This includes mobile network operators, technology firms, and regulatory bodies.
According to officials, stakeholder engagement will help ensure that the 5G rollout is both technically sound and commercially viable. It may also reduce risks related to investment and implementation.
Internet Speed and Access a National Priority
Shaza Fatima emphasized that the internet forms the backbone of the entire digital ecosystem. She said the government is focused not only on increasing internet speeds but also on expanding access across the country.
This focus reflects ongoing concerns about digital inequality. While urban areas often enjoy better connectivity, many rural and remote regions still face limited or slow internet services.
By improving infrastructure and introducing advanced technologies like 5G, the government hopes to narrow this digital divide over time.
Why 5G Matters for Pakistan
Globally, 5G technology offers significantly faster speeds and lower latency than existing 4G networks. In many countries, 5G supports services such as smart cities, remote healthcare, online education, and industrial automation.
For Pakistan, experts say 5G could play an important role in economic growth. Faster and more reliable internet can support startups, enable digital services, and improve productivity.
However, analysts also note that successful 5G deployment depends on affordability, infrastructure investment, and effective regulation. Without these elements, the benefits may take longer to reach ordinary users.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the ambitious timeline, challenges remain. Telecom operators will need substantial investment to upgrade networks. At the same time, consumers may require compatible devices to access 5G services.
There are also regulatory and economic considerations, including spectrum pricing and market competition. Observers say careful planning will be essential to avoid delays.
Still, the government’s announcement marks a clear policy direction. If the timeline is met, Pakistan could join the growing list of countries offering 5G services.
For now, officials say their focus remains on completing the process transparently and efficiently, with the goal of building a stronger digital future for the country.
