The government of Pakistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of 5G” and introduced an ambitious plan to enhance broadband and fibre networks across the country. The plan aims to achieve an average broadband speed of 50-100 Mbps and increase Fibre-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage to 60%.
This roadmap was outlined in the outcome statement by Amer Shahzad, Director General (DG) Licensing, during the National Broadband Network Forum 2024, organized by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in collaboration with Huawei. Shahzad announced that the government plans to hold a 5G spectrum auction in April 2025, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan’s digital future.
Currently, fixed broadband (FBB) penetration is below 2%, but the government aims to raise this figure to 20% within five years. Broadband speeds, which currently average at 15 Mbps, are targeted to increase to between 50-100 Mbps. Similarly, FTTS coverage, which is currently at 20%, will expand to 60% under the government’s strategic plan.
Shahzad emphasized the importance of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) infrastructure in bridging the digital divide and supporting 5G networks. In response to the growing demand for OFC, the government has initiated the National Fiberization Plan, aiming to boost FTTS penetration and enhance OFC deployment.
The plan includes a pilot project for 1 Gbps connectivity in Islamabad, with a vision for nationwide expansion. Additionally, the government aims to extend the fibre network footprint to 0.5 million kilometers, up from the current 200,000 kilometers. The PTA’s annual report highlighted the ongoing expansion of telecom coverage across the country, improving accessibility and connectivity for millions of Pakistanis.
