The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken a significant step toward enhancing mobile connectivity across the country by forwarding its Spectrum Sharing Framework to the Ministry of IT and Telecom for final approval. The initiative is designed to improve the efficient use of spectrum resources and accelerate the expansion of 4G and 5G services nationwide.
Under the proposed framework, telecom operators will be allowed to share spectrum across multiple frequency bands, including 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3500 MHz. These bands play a critical role in delivering high-speed mobile internet services and expanding network coverage in both urban and rural regions.
PTA believes the spectrum-sharing model will help telecom companies reduce infrastructure costs, improve network efficiency, and speed up deployment of advanced digital services. The framework will also require operators to continue meeting rollout obligations and quality-of-service standards set by the regulator.
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In addition to the spectrum-sharing initiative, PTA has introduced the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Framework 2024, which opens the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use. This move supports next-generation wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, offering faster and more reliable internet connectivity for homes, businesses, and public networks.
Pakistan’s telecom sector is currently undergoing major reforms as the country prepares for broader 5G adoption. The government recently conducted its largest-ever 5G spectrum auction and is working on multiple initiatives aimed at improving digital infrastructure and internet accessibility.
