Sri Lanka is preparing to launch 5G services nationwide by the end of 2025, with a spectrum auction set to take place within the coming months, Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne confirmed. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) is finalising tender procedures, with the auction expected 51 days after a final discussion scheduled for next week.
The auction will offer spectrum in the 3.5 GHz and 27 GHz bands, each for a 10-year licence period—comprising four 50 MHz lots in the 3.5 GHz band and four 100 MHz lots in the 27 GHz band. This follows major telecom market consolidation, including the merger of Dialog Axiata PLC and Bharti Airtel Lanka, which now holds around 63% of the mobile subscriber base.
Some spectrum in the 850, 900, and 2300 MHz bands has been redistributed for efficiency, while remaining 2.6 GHz spectrum has been assigned to Hutchison Telecommunications Lanka. TRCSL is considering three allocation options: a direct auction for all qualified bidders, an administrative assignment to a single wholesale network, or an auction for existing operators with sharing obligations.
Auction participation will be restricted to licensed mobile operators running 4G networks with no outstanding licence fees. Winners will face light rollout obligations—requiring commercial 5G service launches at a set number of base station sites in each district within three years.
The government will retain its majority stake in Sri Lanka Telecom PLC and Mobitel. Authorities view the 5G rollout as a key driver of economic recovery, enabling faster connectivity, new digital services, and greater appeal for foreign investment.
