5G Spectrum Auction Expected to Boost Pakistan’s Internet Connectivity

The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication was briefed on Thursday about the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, slated for April 2025, which is anticipated to significantly improve the country’s internet services.

The meeting, chaired by Syed Amin-ul-Haque, discussed the ongoing challenges faced by the country’s internet infrastructure, with committee members noting that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had previously committed to enhancing internet services by October 2024. However, concerns remain over continued internet disruptions, which have resulted in financial losses worth millions of dollars.

The PTA Chairman informed the committee that three out of seven submarine cables have been damaged, causing severe disruptions to internet connectivity across the nation. He highlighted that the existing allocation of 270 MHz spectrum is inadequate for Pakistan’s population of 240 million, leading to congestion and slower network speeds.

The PTA Chairman also emphasized that over the past six years, the telecom sector has contributed Rs. 1700 billion to the national exchequer, underscoring the sector’s vital role in the economy.

In response to the connectivity challenges, the PTA Chairman announced the introduction of four new submarine cables. These cables are expected to significantly improve internet performance and support the expansion of Pakistan’s digital economy.

With the upcoming 5G spectrum auction and the infrastructure upgrades, the government is hopeful that Pakistan’s internet services will experience a substantial boost, enhancing overall connectivity for businesses, consumers, and the digital economy.