Pakistan’s Telecom operators have outlined the conditions for launching 5G services in the country. These include payments in local currency, staggered payment plans, lower taxes, and enough spectrum in the 2600 MHz band. Industry sources say these steps are necessary for a smooth and sustainable rollout of 5G.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) hired a consultancy firm, National Economic Research Associates Inc. (NERA), to help design a 5G spectrum allocation policy framework. Telecom companies are waiting for NERA’s recommendations.
NERA is working on assessing the telecom sector’s health and providing recommendations to improve the industry’s financial forecast.
One key issue telecom companies raised is the limited spectrum availability in the 2600 MHz band.
Telecom operators have also asked the government to formally recognize the telecom sector as an industry.
In addition, operators said the country should focus on strengthening the 4G network before moving forward with 5G.
Photo Source: PTA
