ECC Clears Way for Pakistan’s 5G Spectrum Auction, Approves Advisory Committee Recommendations

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Tuesday approved the recommendations of the Auction Advisory Committee (AAC) for Pakistan’s long-awaited 5G spectrum auction, clearing a key policy hurdle and paving the way for the next steps in high-speed mobile network deployment.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, with Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja also present.

Addressing a joint press conference, Finance Minister Aurangzeb said, “We are moving forward with the Digital Pakistan program.” He added, “The ECC has approved the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee,” and noted, “We will soon present the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee before the cabinet.”

IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said, “Consultation with the telecom sector and other relevant stakeholders will be ensured.” She confirmed that “We are going to auction 600 megahertz of spectrum” and added, “5G will be introduced in Pakistan very soon.” She also outlined the timeline, stating, “The entire process will be completed within the next four to six months,” and expressed the government’s broader vision, saying, “The internet is the foundation of the entire digital ecosystem,” and “Along with internet speed, we will also expand its access.”

The ministers said that the ECC’s approval allows the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to move forward with finalizing auction rules and timelines. Shaza Fatima Khawaja indicated, “We are trying to complete the auction in the first week of February 2026.”

Officials added that the AAC had reviewed spectrum valuation, auction design, payment terms, and rollout obligations, aiming to balance affordability for operators with sustainable revenue for the government. The approved recommendations are expected to boost market confidence and encourage participation by telecom operators.

Both ministers reaffirmed that 5G deployment remains a priority under the Digital Pakistan program, critical for boosting productivity, innovation, and the delivery of digital services across sectors, including industry, health, education, and agriculture.