The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made it mandatory for telecom operators to participate in the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum bands in the upcoming 5G auction. The move is aimed at ensuring that 5G services launched in Pakistan are practical and deliver a real user experience.

Officials said that while several countries introduced 5G without making specific spectrum bands compulsory, PTA has decided to take a stricter approach to speed up actual 5G rollout and avoid delays in service availability.

Why 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz Matter

Under the auction framework, the 2600 MHz band can be used for both 4G and 5G services, while the 3500 MHz band is reserved exclusively for 5G deployment. Although operators are free to bid on other available bands based on their business plans, participation in these two key bands is compulsory.

PTA officials said this requirement is intended to ensure that a functional and effective 5G ecosystem is established soon after spectrum is allocated, rather than limiting 5G to trials or partial coverage.

Mock Auction Before Final Bidding

PTA will conduct a mock auction ahead of the main 5G auction to test the bidding software and help telecom operators understand the auction process. Bidding manuals will be shared with participating companies in advance, and the system will be fully tested during the mock exercise.

Officials said the mock auction will also allow operators to become familiar with technical and procedural requirements before real bidding begins.

All Six Bands to Be Available on Auction Day

According to PTA, all six spectrum bands will be available on the auction day. The auction itself may last one day or extend to two or three days, depending on how much interest operators show across multiple bands.

February 27 has been set as the deadline for submission of bid documents. Each operator planning to participate must submit a bank guarantee of USD 15 million. PTA will also finalize on the same date how many companies will take part in the auction.