ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is set to conduct the second phase of the 5G spectrum auction tomorrow, focusing on determining the positioning of frequency bands already purchased by telecom operators.
Read More: Pakistan secures $507 million in historic 5G spectrum auction
This phase will cover the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum bands and will follow an assignment-based bidding process. Under this system, participating telecom companies can bid for top, middle, or lower positions within the allocated frequency blocks, which affects coverage, performance and network efficiency.
According to the regulator, if all companies reach a mutual agreement on spectrum positioning, the allocation will be finalised without competitive bidding. However, if consensus is not achieved, the PTA will proceed with bidding rounds.
Regulator to allocate exact frequency positions to Jazz, Ufone and Zong in next rollout stage
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The authority has set an initial positioning fee of $100,000 per spectrum block, which could increase up to $1 million if the auction moves to a second round.
The first phase of the 5G spectrum auction was successfully completed earlier, with 480 MHz of the total 597.2 MHz spectrum sold. During that stage, Pak Telecom Mobile Limited secured 180 MHz, Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited acquired 190 MHz, and Zong obtained 110 MHz.
The first phase generated approximately $507 million in revenue for the regulator. The PTA expects the second phase, which focuses solely on spectrum positioning, to add an additional $1 million to $2 million in revenue.
Read More: 480MHz sold for $507m as 5G spectrum auction concludes
Officials noted that the auction is part of Pakistan’s broader effort to expand 5G coverage and improve digital connectivity across the country, providing faster internet speeds and supporting emerging technologies. Telecom operators view spectrum positioning as crucial for optimising network performance and maintaining competitive advantages.
The successful completion of this second phase will finalise the allocation of the newly introduced 5G spectrum, enabling operators to roll out services more efficiently and enhance user experience nationwide.