The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is set to issue 5G licenses to telecom companies on Thursday, with all arrangements finalised for the rollout of next-generation mobile services.
According to PTA officials, licenses will be granted simultaneously to all three major telecom operators, enabling them to begin 5G services as early as Eid-ul-Fitr. Initially, limited areas of Islamabad are expected to benefit from high-speed connectivity during the festive period.
Officials confirmed that telecom companies have already submitted the required bank guarantees to the PTA. Under the licensing terms, each company is obligated to provide a $15 million bank guarantee to meet compliance conditions.
The license requirements also mandate each operator to establish at least 1,000 new telecom sites and ensure coverage in remote and underserved areas.
The PTA recently concluded the 5G spectrum auction, selling 480 MHz out of the total 597 MHz available. The auction is expected to generate approximately $510 million in revenue for the government.
A formal ceremony for the issuance of licenses is expected to be attended by key government figures.