LAHORE
February 15, 2026
Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja has announced that Pakistan will hold a 600 MHz spectrum auction next month as part of broader efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and accelerate growth in the country’s digital economy. The additional spectrum is expected to enhance mobile internet capacity, improve connectivity quality, and support faster, more reliable internet services nationwide.
Speaking at the Indus AI Week conference at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the minister emphasized that improved connectivity will support the expansion of digital services, e-commerce, e-governance platforms, and online business activity, helping reduce connectivity challenges faced by citizens and enterprises.
The minister also highlighted the government’s wider digital transformation agenda, including initiatives aimed at expanding access to smartphones under the “Smartphone for All” policy. The initiative seeks to increase digital inclusion by enabling more citizens to access modern technology and participate in the digital economy.
A key focus of the government’s strategy is artificial intelligence adoption and workforce development. Plans are underway to reskill and upskill one million individuals in AI-related capabilities, with a focus on empowering youth, women, and professionals to meet evolving market demands. The government is also working to integrate technology-driven learning into education systems to prepare future talent for digital industries.
LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol noted that AI has the potential to transform economic sectors including manufacturing, services, education, and governance. He stressed that businesses must adopt AI and automation across supply chains, production processes, and financial systems to enhance competitiveness in global markets. The business community, he said, must collaborate closely with policymakers to accelerate responsible technology adoption.
The minister further outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity, data protection, and governance frameworks to ensure safe and transparent use of digital technologies. The government is also focusing on expanding fiber infrastructure, promoting digital payments, and encouraging a transition toward a cashless economy to reduce business costs and improve financial transparency.
The upcoming spectrum auction is seen as a key milestone in Pakistan’s digital roadmap, supporting improved connectivity while enabling innovation, investment, and broader participation in the digital economy.
