Pakistan’s much-anticipated 5G rollout continues to face delays due to a mix of legal disputes, regulatory hurdles, and corporate influence.
One of the biggest setbacks stems from the 1995 spectrum case, which has locked up nearly 140 MHz of airwaves—a critical resource for next-generation telecom services. Currently, only 54 MHz of spectrum is available for use, far short of the 194 MHz required to launch a commercially viable 5G auction and service.
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Analysts note that bureaucratic inefficiencies and slow telecom sector consolidations are also major barriers. These challenges have raised concerns among investors, who now see Pakistan’s digital roadmap as uncertain and vulnerable to policy paralysis.
Meanwhile, regional peers like India and Gulf countries are moving ahead rapidly with their 5G deployments, leaving Pakistan at risk of falling behind in the digital economy.
Experts stress that authorities must act quickly to resolve legal disputes, ensure transparent spectrum allocation, and reduce undue corporate influence in policymaking. Without such reforms, Pakistan risks missing the opportunities that 5G could bring for innovation, connectivity, and economic growth.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Pakistan’s 5G rollout delayed?
It is delayed due to legal disputes, regulatory bottlenecks, and corporate influence in the telecom sector.
Q2: What is the 1995 spectrum case?
It is a long-standing legal dispute that has tied up 140 MHz of spectrum, preventing its use for modern telecom services.
Q3: How much spectrum is needed for 5G?
A viable 5G auction requires 194 MHz, but only 54 MHz is currently available.
Q4: How does Pakistan compare with its neighbors?
India and Gulf countries have already advanced in 5G deployment, while Pakistan lags behind due to unresolved issues.
Q5: What steps are recommended for progress?
Experts recommend accelerating transparent spectrum allocation, resolving disputes, cutting bureaucratic delays, and limiting undue influence from powerful stakeholders.
