Consultant Warns of Delays in 5G Rollout Due to Unavailability of Key Spectrum Band

The 5G rollout in Pakistan has encountered significant setbacks due to the unavailability of 140 MHz in the 2600 MHz band, a key frequency band for the successful launch of 5G. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has been working diligently to address this issue, but according to a report from the National Economic Research Associates Inc. (NERA), an international consultancy firm based in the United States, the delay in clearing this spectrum is a major concern for the future of 5G in Pakistan.

Key Challenges in the 5G Rollout in Pakistan

The Crucial Role of the 2600 MHz Band

The 2600 MHz band has been recognized globally as a prime spectrum for launching 5G services. Its availability is critical not only for the successful deployment of 5G technology but also for reducing congestion in the existing 4G network. Despite the government’s ongoing efforts to clear the band, 140 MHz of it remains tied up in litigation, creating a significant bottleneck in the process.

Impact on Market Competition and Service Quality

The unavailability of this crucial spectrum band has raised concerns among market participants. The government, in partnership with NERA, has been working on strategies to enhance the market’s competitiveness and improve service quality through the release of additional spectrum. However, the lack of clarity around the 2600 MHz band has led to a slowdown in the rollout of 5G services, which are necessary to boost the country’s digital economy.

According to NERA, there is a strong demand in the market for additional spectrum to enhance the quality of mobile broadband services, but the ongoing litigation over the 140 MHz in the 2600 MHz band has delayed the auction process. The government is pursuing a legal route through the Attorney General’s office to expedite the clearance of this spectrum, but until then, the 5G rollout remains hindered.

The Path Forward: Solutions and Strategies for a Successful 5G Auction

The Spectrum Auction Plans

The government had initially planned to auction 562 MHz of spectrum, but with 140 MHz still tied up in litigation, the auction will likely be delayed. The government has a significant amount of spectrum in various International Telecommunication Union (ITU) bands earmarked for 5G, including the 700 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3300 MHz bands. While these bands are suitable for 5G deployment, the ongoing legal issues with the 2600 MHz band pose a serious challenge to the planned auction and subsequent rollout.

Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement

NERA’s report also emphasized the importance of clear and efficient communication between the government and stakeholders in the telecommunications sector. One such issue raised by NERA is the recent acquisition of Telenor Pakistan by Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), which could potentially reduce market competition. NERA recommended that the government take steps to address these concerns before finalizing the auction rules.

Government’s Vision for 5G and Digital Transformation

Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to advancing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and increasing mobile broadband speeds. In a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, discussions were held about the government’s strategy for improving connectivity and fostering the adoption of digital technologies. The goal is to leverage 5G to drive economic growth, enhance digital services, and meet the country’s sustainable development goals.

Government’s Strategic Initiatives for Digital Economy

Revamping the Telecommunications Sector

The government’s strategy for enhancing the telecommunications sector includes improving internet infrastructure, promoting the adoption of 4G and 5G technologies, and strengthening the regulatory framework to encourage investment in the sector. Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, emphasized the importance of upgrading the country’s digital infrastructure to drive economic transformation and improve socio-economic development.

Global Partnerships for Technological Advancements

The government has also been working on securing international partnerships to help bring cutting-edge technology to Pakistan. The successful implementation of 5G services is seen as a key enabler for Pakistan’s digital economy, which has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Minister’s Remarks on Digital Economy and 5G

Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja spoke about the increasing importance of cybersecurity as part of Pakistan’s broader digital strategy. According to Fatima, the government is committed to fortifying the country’s digital defences in the face of rising cyber threats. This includes ensuring the successful rollout of 5G, which is essential for enhancing mobile broadband services.

5G Expansion Plans

Pakistan is aiming to roll out 5G services by April 2025, with a focus on enhancing the country’s telecom infrastructure. The government is also prioritizing the expansion of 4G and 5G coverage to ensure that mobile broadband services are available across the country. This is part of a larger effort to improve connectivity and bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas.

FAQs: Key Questions on Pakistan’s 5G Rollout

1. Why is the 2600 MHz band important for 5G?

The 2600 MHz band is a key spectrum band for launching 5G services because it provides the necessary bandwidth to support high-speed mobile broadband. It also helps alleviate congestion in existing 4G networks.

2. What is the government doing to address the delays in the 5G rollout?

The government is actively pursuing legal action to clear the 140 MHz of spectrum in the 2600 MHz band that is currently tied up in litigation. Additionally, the government is preparing to auction 562 MHz of spectrum to improve mobile broadband services.

3. How will the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan by PTCL affect the market?

The acquisition has raised concerns about reduced market competition. The government is working on addressing these concerns and ensuring that the spectrum auction rules foster a competitive environment.

4. When is Pakistan expected to launch 5G services?

The government aims to launch 5G services by April 2025, with a focus on improving the country’s digital infrastructure and expanding 4G and 5G coverage across the nation.

5. What role will 5G play in Pakistan’s digital economy?

5G is expected to play a pivotal role in driving Pakistan’s digital economy by enabling high-speed internet, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of digital services across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Conclusion: A Roadmap for Pakistan’s 5G Future

The challenges faced by Pakistan in its 5G rollout are significant, but the government’s commitment to improving telecommunications infrastructure and expanding mobile broadband services remains steadfast. By clearing the legal hurdles surrounding the 2600 MHz band and finalizing the spectrum auction process, Pakistan can position itself as a leader in the digital economy in the years to come.