Telecom regulator in Pakistan has finalised the Information Memorandum for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is expected to issue the document after receiving formal approval, a move that will formally initiate the auction process.
Sources said the completion of the Information Memorandum follows the federal government’s recent policy directive for auctioning next-generation mobile spectrum.
Officials said the document outlines the legal and regulatory framework of the auction, its objectives, and the PTA’s mandate under the government’s directive.
It also provides an overview of market conditions, available spectrum, and policy goals linked to the introduction of next-generation mobile services.
According to sources, the Information Memorandum includes detailed technical and auction-related information, such as the spectrum bands and blocks on offer, frequency arrangements, and technology-neutral usage rights.
It also sets spectrum caps to ensure fair competition and explains the auction design, bidding rules, timelines, eligibility criteria, and participation conditions for existing operators and potential new entrants.
Following the issuance of the policy directive, chief executives of all cellular mobile operators met Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
Read More: Pakistan plans $630m telecom spectrum auction
During the meeting, telecom operators thanked the federal government for accommodating key industry demands, including the decision to fix the dollar rate on the day of the auction.
The operators assured the minister of their participation in the 5G auction, while expressing hope that concerns related to quality-of-service requirements and rollout obligations would be addressed.
Sources said the minister told the meeting that Pakistan is the most spectrum-starved country in the region and that the auction of around 600 megahertz of spectrum would help improve mobile service quality.
She emphasised that additional spectrum is essential to reduce network congestion, enhance user experience, and support future data growth.
The federal government issued the 5G policy directive earlier this week, making multiple low-, mid- and high-band frequencies available under a transparent and competitive framework.
Key features include technology-neutral spectrum use, fixed base prices, a locked dollar conversion rate, flexible payment options, and a 15-year licence tenure.
Sources said the auction is expected to be conducted after the Information Memorandum is issued and the PTA completes the required regulatory process.
