Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s mobile phone industry is preparing for a mid-year 5G rollout, with local manufacturers aligning production and technology strategies, though adoption is expected to grow gradually as spectrum allocation, network deployment and handset affordability shape early market uptake across major urban centres.
PTA has warned the public about a rise in phishing scams targeting personal and financial data. The regulator urged users to avoid suspicious links, verify senders, and never share sensitive information, stressing that PTA never requests personal details. Citizens are encouraged to report scams and spread awareness.
PTA has completed the Information Memorandum for Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction, outlining auction design, spectrum availability, and participation rules. The move follows a new policy directive aimed at easing financial risk and accelerating nationwide 5G rollout.
Pakistan offers some of the world’s lowest mobile data prices, with $0.12 per GB and a $1.02 2GB broadband basket. However, low ARPU, high inflation, currency depreciation, and rising costs are straining operator sustainability despite regulatory oversight.
Pakistan has approved a new MVNO policy allowing virtual mobile operators to provide nationwide services without owning spectrum. The framework sets a $140,000 licence fee, promotes competition and innovation, and enables operators to use existing networks while complying with PTA security, service quality, and regulatory requirements.
Pakistan’s telecom sector crossed 200 million subscribers in FY2024–25, with revenues exceeding Rs1 trillion and broadband penetration surpassing 60%. Investment growth, expanded 4G coverage, rising data consumption, and increased local device manufacturing reinforced the sector’s role in Pakistan’s digital economy.
Telenor completed the sale of Telenor Pakistan at a valuation of NOK 5.3 billion, confirming the transaction announced in December 2023. Over 20 years, the operator served more than 40 million customers and supported digital inclusion and economic growth across Pakistan.
PTCL’s merged Ufone-Telenor entity plans to participate in Pakistan’s 5G auction, focusing on spectrum optimisation and network expansion. The integration aims to strengthen digital services while assuring workforce continuity during the transition period.
Pakistan’s telecom subscriber base has reached 200 million, with broadband users crossing 150 million as sector revenues exceed Rs1 trillion. Strong investment, rising data usage, local handset manufacturing, and improved cybersecurity rankings highlight continued digital growth.
PTCL has confirmed its participation in Pakistan’s upcoming 5G spectrum auction following its acquisition of Telenor Pakistan, positioning the merged entity as the country’s second-largest telecom operator amid strong revenue growth and persistent cost pressures across the sector.