The
telecom industry in Pakistan has been pushing for the government to provide
free 5G spectrum for five years and exempt taxes on 5G devices. However, the
government has yet to issue a policy directive on the launch of 5G in the
country.
According
to a document released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the
industry has proposed that the 5G spectrum be auctioned off after five years,
once use cases have been deployed. They have also called for a ban on the
production and import of 2G/3G handsets in the country.
PTA
has received the industry's recommendations; it cannot make any decisions on
its own. The Pakistani government is poised to issue a crucial policy directive
that will shape the future of telecommunications in the country: the launch of
5G. In order to ensure that this transition is carried out in the most
effective and efficient manner possible, the Pakistan Telecommunications
Authority (PTA) will be engaging the services of a consultant to provide expert
recommendations.
The
consultant will work closely with all stakeholders to conduct a detailed market
study and review international regulatory practices for the launch of 5G. PTA
invites telecom industry to shape government recommendations.
The
launch date for 5G in Pakistan has been a topic of discussion, with the
Ministry of IT previously stating it would be in June 2023. However, the
ongoing economic crisis in the country and non-opening of LCs has led to
delays, with the Minister now suggesting a later launch date.
The
government aims to make the upcoming 5G auction low-priced and
industry-friendly, with the Auction Advisory Committee making the final
decision based on PTA's consultant reports. Overall, the launch of 5G in
Pakistan remains a matter of government policy, and all stakeholders are
eagerly waiting for the policy directive to be issued.