PTA issues 5G licences to three operators

The formal launch of 5G services across the country has begun, paving the way for the introduction of advanced internet services in Pakistan, as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued licences to three major telecom companies, with services starting in phases from Thursday.

The PTA granted 5G licences to three mobile operators during a ceremony held at the Prime Minister's House, where representatives of the companies were handed over the licences. The PTA Director General (Licensing) formally transferred the licences to company representatives after signing. Pakistan has now entered a high-speed digital era, with the rollout of 5G services underway. According to details, the PTA issued 5G licences to Zong, Jazz and Ufone. Agreements for 5G spectrum licences were signed between the PTA and telecom operators, enabling the three companies to formally launch 5G services in the country and provide consumers with high-speed internet and advanced digital facilities.

Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the promotion of modern technology is a milestone for the industry, agriculture and IT sectors. He said the 5G spectrum auction was conducted in an extremely transparent manner and congratulated the entire team for resolving legal challenges effectively. He also appreciated the cooperation of Zong and other telecom partners, adding that youth would leverage modern technology to bring recognition to the country in the IT sector.

He further said that Pakistan-China friendship is unique and that this modern technology reflects that partnership, adding that the government is working to provide advanced technological facilities across the country.

IT Minister Shaza Fatima said that, given the circumstances, the event was kept brief. She said 5G services have been introduced in Pakistan for the first time and that this success was made possible through teamwork under the Prime Minister's leadership. She added that steps are being taken to improve 4G services for citizens and that overall internet quality will improve in the coming months.

PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman said that the development of mobile technology in Pakistan began in the early 1990s. He noted that four spectrum auctions were conducted between 2004 and 2025, adding that 480 MHz of spectrum has been auctioned and licensed in a transparent manner, placing Pakistan at the top in the region in terms of spectrum capacity.

According to the PTA, major telecom companies are rolling out services in phases. Zong and Jazz have already launched 5G services from Thursday, while Ufone will introduce the service in the coming days. Sources said telecom companies are also coordinating with mobile manufacturers, and users will soon receive software update notifications on their phones to enable 5G services.