PTA Finalizes Information Memorandum for 5G Spectrum Auction

Pakistan’s preparations for the auction of fifth-generation (5G) mobile spectrum have moved forward, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) finalizing the Information Memorandum (IM) for the upcoming auction, sources within the regulator said.

According to PTA sources, the Information Memorandum will be issued shortly after receiving formal approval from the authority. The document will provide a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework governing the 5G spectrum auction.

Sources said the IM will include details of the spectrum bands and blocks to be made available for bidding. The 5G spectrum will be auctioned on a technology-neutral basis, allowing successful bidders to deploy advanced mobile technologies under the existing regulatory regime.

The Information Memorandum will also outline the auction rules, bidding process, and timelines. Both existing mobile network operators and new investors will be eligible to participate in the auction, subject to applicable conditions.

In addition, the IM will clearly define the financial terms for successful bidders, including payment mechanisms. It will also set out key licensing conditions, such as license duration, network rollout obligations, and quality-of-service requirements.

The development follows the federal government’s issuance of a policy directive for the 5G spectrum auction a day earlier, after which the PTA accelerated preparatory work for the auction process.

The 5G spectrum auction is seen as a critical step toward enhancing mobile broadband capacity and supporting next-generation digital services in Pakistan.

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