Government Announces 5G Mobile Phones to Be Available on Easy Installments for Citizens

The government of Pakistan has announced a new policy allowing 5G smartphones to be purchased on easy installments, Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima said on Friday. The initiative aims to make 5G devices more accessible to citizens and encourage wider adoption of advanced mobile technology.

Shiza Fatima highlighted that the number of 5G-enabled phones in Pakistan remains low, and this scheme is intended to make high-speed connectivity more affordable for the general public. “Through easy installments, more citizens will be able to own 5G smartphones, supporting digital inclusion across the country,” she said.

The minister also noted that the cabinet has approved a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework, which will allow additional telecom operators to enter the market. Currently, Pakistan has three mobile operators, and the arrival of MVNOs is expected to increase competition, attract foreign investment, and expand consumer choice. Globally, the MVNO market is valued at $94 billion and projected to reach $174 billion by 2032, providing opportunities for Pakistan to secure its share.

Shiza Fatima added that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued district-level CVES licenses to boost fiberization and extend internet access to remote areas. The government has also removed Right-of-Way charges, a move expected to improve service quality nationwide.

On the 5G rollout, the minister said major cities will see deployment within six to seven months, with notable improvements in network performance expected within three to four months of spectrum allocation. She further highlighted that the landing of three submarine cables over the past 18 months will further enhance internet speed and reliability across the country.

Officials believe that with these initiatives—easy installments for 5G phones, MVNO entry, and infrastructure upgrades—Pakistan is set to accelerate digital adoption, improve internet quality, and increase access to high-speed mobile connectivity for citizens.

Also read:

Breaking: IT Minister Announces 5G Spectrum Auction Date, Reveals Number of Bands Involved