Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shiza Fatima Khawaja has announced that the long-awaited launch process for 5G services in Pakistan is expected to reach a critical milestone with the spectrum auction scheduled between February 26 and February 28, 2026.
Following the auction, users are expected to see a significant transformation in the country’s digital landscape.
The minister emphasized that the arrival of 5G will not only provide ultra-fast internet speeds but will also lead to a noticeable improvement in existing 4G services.
Timeline
The spectrum auction is set for the last week of February (Feb 26–28).
Improvements in internet speed and quality are expected to be felt by consumers within the first few months of the rollout.
The additional spectrum will help alleviate network congestion, making current 4G connections faster and more stable.
The government is shifting its focus from “one-time revenue” to “long-term digital growth,” viewing affordable and high-speed internet as the backbone of a modern economy.
Technical Infrastructure Upgrades
Minister Shiza Fatima noted that current internet slowdowns are primarily due to a shortage of spectrum and mobile congestion.
Pakistan currently serves its large population on only 274 MHz of spectrum. The upcoming auction of nearly 600 MHz will essentially expand the “digital highway,” moving traffic from a “two-lane road” to an “eight-lane highway.”
Initially, 5G services are expected to be launched in major metropolitan hubs, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar and Quetta
The government aims for a full commercial rollout in these major cities within six months post-auction, with a gradual expansion to other regions and highways.
