federal government has decided to revise its 5G spectrum auction policy, shifting focus from revenue generation to accelerating infrastructure development and nationwide rollout of next-generation connectivity, according to media reports.
The revised approach aims to prioritize rapid 5G access across the country in the short term, while revenue from the auction is now being treated as a secondary concern. Officials involved in the policy review say the government is emphasizing long-term economic and technological benefits over immediate financial gains.
As part of this strategic shift, policymakers are studying various international spectrum allocation models, including Saudi Arabia’s free-license approach. Under this model, spectrum is offered to telecom companies at no cost, on the condition of a swift and universal rollout across the country.
Pakistani government is evaluating whether waiving spectrum fees could accelerate service delivery in all regions and reduce the financial burden on telecom operators. If approved, companies could be given free access to 5G spectrum with mandatory nationwide service coverage within a 2 to 5-year timeframe.
Ministry of Information Technology believes that easing financial constraints will encourage telecom providers to invest more in infrastructure and technology. This, in turn, is expected to generate significant economic gains in sectors such as education, healthcare, industry, and governance.
With the telecom industry undergoing transformation, officials are advocating for a new roadmap that promotes digital inclusion, enhances service delivery, and aligns with Pakistan’s broader vision of inclusive technological advancement.
