Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Robi Axiata has questioned the timing of Bangladesh’s planned 700MHz spectrum auction, warning that holding it ahead of national elections could deter investment due to political and regulatory uncertainty. While Robi continues to invest locally, executives stress that long-term capital commitments require stable governance and predictable telecom policies.
Pakistan’s telecom industry is urging the government to adopt a pragmatic spectrum auction policy that reflects economic realities and prioritises long-term digital growth. With limited spectrum constraining connectivity, operators warn that misaligned pricing could slow investment, cost billions in GDP, and undermine 5G, financial inclusion, and digital transformation goals.
Pakistan’s government plans to auction over 600MHz of telecom spectrum by early February 2026 to ease internet congestion, enable 5G rollout, and attract new operators. The move supports Digital Nation Pakistan and Connect 2030 goals, addressing spectrum shortages that have constrained mobile broadband performance and digital transformation.
Robi Axiata has urged caution over Bangladesh’s planned pre-election 700MHz spectrum auction, citing political uncertainty and regulatory inconsistency. The operator warned that major investment decisions require stability, noting policy changes, spending pressures, and foreign ownership limits as key factors affecting investor confidence.
Bangladesh will auction the 700MHz band for the first time on 14 January 2026, offering 25MHz to the country’s four mobile operators. The band—critical for long-range 4G and future 5G expansion—comes to auction after years of disputes and legal delays. With reduced spectrum prices and strong industry demand, the auction is expected to reshape nationwide coverage and improve mobile broadband quality.