ECC Approves 600 MHz Spectrum Auction as Government Targets 5G Rollout Within Six Months
Pakistan is moving closer to a long-awaited upgrade of its digital infrastructure. In a significant policy development, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved the auction of the 600 MHz spectrum. The decision is expected to improve internet speeds while laying the groundwork for the introduction of 5G services across the country.
The approval reflects the government’s broader objective of accelerating digital transformation and addressing longstanding capacity constraints in the telecom sector. According to officials, the move could mark a turning point for connectivity, innovation, and economic growth.
ECC Decision Clears Path for Spectrum Auction
Speaking at a joint press conference alongside Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed the ECC’s approval of the 600 MHz spectrum auction.
She stated that the federal government aims to complete the internet spectrum auction by early 2026 following the committee’s endorsement. The approval represents a critical procedural milestone, as spectrum availability has remained a major bottleneck in improving broadband quality nationwide.
Moreover, the minister emphasized that the decision aligns with the government’s commitment to modernize Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure.
Cabinet Approval and Stakeholder Consultations Planned
Expanding on the process ahead, Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the recommendations of the Spectrum Advisory Committee would soon be presented to the federal cabinet. She added that the government plans to conduct consultations with all relevant stakeholders before finalizing the auction framework.
These consultations will include engagement with the telecom industry to ensure transparency, competitiveness, and regulatory clarity. As a result, the government aims to design an auction process that balances investor confidence with consumer interests.
Such coordination, officials believe, will help avoid implementation delays and support smoother deployment after the auction concludes.
Addressing Internet Speed Constraints in Pakistan
The IT minister acknowledged that Pakistan’s internet speeds lag behind global standards due to insufficient spectrum availability. She noted that existing capacity limitations restrict operators’ ability to deliver faster and more reliable services.
“Due to a lack of spectrum, internet speed in Pakistan is not up to world standards,” she said, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The auction of the 600 MHz band is expected to improve coverage and signal penetration, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Consequently, users could experience better connectivity even without immediate access to next-generation networks.
Government Targets 5G Rollout Within Six Months
In addition to improving current services, the spectrum auction is expected to enable the rollout of 5G technology. Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated that the government is actively working toward launching 5G services within the next six months.
While she did not outline a detailed timeline, the statement signals renewed momentum around a project that has faced repeated delays in the past. If achieved, the rollout would place Pakistan among countries adopting advanced mobile broadband technologies.
Furthermore, officials believe that 5G could support innovation across sectors such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and fintech.
Economic and Digital Implications
The approval of the spectrum auction carries wider economic implications. Improved connectivity can enhance productivity, attract foreign investment, and support the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy.
In addition, faster and more reliable internet services may strengthen the country’s startup ecosystem and expand access to digital public services. For the government, the auction also represents a potential source of non-tax revenue.
However, experts note that successful outcomes will depend on execution, pricing strategy, and regulatory consistency.
