KARACHI: Pakistan’s 5G rollout has begun after last week’s spectrum auction, with major telecom operator Jazz launching next-generation mobile services in key cities, it said on Friday, marking a significant step in the country’s push toward faster digital connectivity.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) last week concluded its long-awaited Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) auction, allocating spectrum across multiple bands aimed at improving speeds, reducing latency and enabling new digital services. The auction is part of the government’s broader effort to expand Pakistan’s digital economy, improve connectivity and attract investment in the telecom sector.
Following the auction, Jazz said it had launched 5G services at around 180 sites across Islamabad and major provincial capitals, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan and Faisalabad.
“Today marks the beginning of Pakistan’s 5G era, unlocking a new wave of innovation, opportunity, and growth,” Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz, said in a statement.
“As we lead this transition, our focus remains clear: delivering faster, more reliable connectivity while ensuring that no Pakistani is left behind,” he added.
The company said it had secured spectrum across multiple bands in the auction, which it expects will support both wider coverage and higher data capacity. It also said it would continue expanding its 4G network alongside 5G deployment.
The launch comes as Pakistan seeks to modernize its telecom infrastructure amid growing demand for mobile data services and digital platforms. However, industry observers say challenges remain, including high rollout costs, regulatory hurdles and the need to ensure that improved connectivity translates into tangible economic benefits.
Officials have said the rollout of 5G will be gradual, with initial services concentrated in urban centers before expanding nationwide.
Analysts note that while 5G promises faster internet and new applications in areas such as industry, health and education, its success will depend on infrastructure readiness, affordability and consumer adoption in a price-sensitive market.
