In a strategic move to fast-track the launch of 5G services, the Government of Pakistan is aiming for a “dispute-free spectrum auction” by removing long-standing legal obstacles. Court cases involving telecom spectrum — some dating back over 20 years — have significantly delayed the auction process, resulting in financial setbacks for both the telecom sector and the national exchequer.
To resolve this, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the Attorney General of Pakistan to meet with the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The goal of this meeting is to highlight how unresolved spectrum disputes are hindering the country’s digital progress and economic gains. This direct approach comes after previous legal efforts to clear the backlog proved ineffective.
Currently, 161.6 MHz of spectrum is caught in litigation, including 140 MHz in the 2600 MHz band — a globally preferred frequency range for 4G and 5G technologies. This legal deadlock prevents a fair and competitive spectrum auction from taking place.
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According to a written response in Parliament, the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT), Frequency Allocation Board (FAB), and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that 606 MHz of spectrum is available for the upcoming 5G auction. However, the full rollout depends on resolving disputes over the remaining spectrum.
FAB has already coordinated with defense forces and re-farmed outdated services to free up crucial bands, including:
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700 MHz
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2300 MHz
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3500 MHz
Officials assure that once the litigation is resolved, Pakistan will be positioned to hold a competitive 5G auction aligned with international benchmarks.
