Government Forms Joint Task Force to Remove Key Barriers to 5G Rollout in Pakistan

In a significant move aimed at resolving long-standing issues in the telecom sector ahead of the planned 5G rollout in Pakistan, the federal government has decided to establish a high-level Joint Task Force to spearhead sector-wide reforms.

According to official documents, the Task Force will bring together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the Power Division, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Telecom operators and electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) will also be part of the initiative, reflecting a coordinated approach to addressing infrastructure and energy-related challenges.

Focus on Power Stability and Network Reliability

One of the Task Force’s primary objectives will be to address the persistent issue of unreliable electricity supply, which continues to disrupt mobile network services across the country. Proposals under consideration include the introduction of an industrial power tariff specifically for telecom operators, recognizing telecommunications as critical national infrastructure.

To counter prolonged load shedding, the Task Force will explore smart grid solutions and the establishment of dedicated power feeders for telecom networks. Officials believe these measures could significantly improve network uptime and service quality, particularly as data demand rises with the introduction of 5G.

Spectrum Strategy and Infrastructure Sharing

The Task Force will also review Pakistan’s 2020 rolling spectrum strategy, with the government considering the release of more than 1,000 megahertz of additional spectrum before 2030. This move is seen as essential to supporting future technologies, including 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced digital services.

In parallel, the government plans to promote infrastructure sharing among telecom operators to increase tower tenancy ratios, reduce costs, and accelerate network expansion. Authorities are also evaluating ways to more effectively utilize fiber optic networks laid under the Universal Service Fund (USF), much of which remains underused.

Lower Costs for 5G Devices and Faster Deployment

To encourage mass adoption of 5G, the government is considering tax relief measures on 5G smartphones, according to official documents. The strategy includes promoting local manufacturing to reduce device costs for consumers while allowing duty-free imports of 5G equipment to enable faster and more cost-effective network deployment.

Licensing Reforms to Attract Investment

The Joint Task Force will further review the existing telecom licensing framework to make it more investment-friendly. Policymakers believe that regulatory clarity, coupled with energy and infrastructure reforms, will help attract fresh domestic and foreign investment into the sector.

A Coordinated Push Toward Digital Readiness

Officials describe the formation of the Joint Task Force as a critical step toward aligning telecom, energy, and regulatory policies at a time when Pakistan is preparing for its next phase of digital growth. If implemented effectively, the proposed reforms could address structural bottlenecks that have long held back the sector and pave the way for a smoother and more sustainable 5G rollout.

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