Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PSX: PTCL) announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Pak Telecom Mobile Limited (PTML), has successfully secured 180 MHz of spectrum in the country’s latest Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) and 5G auction. The acquisition positions PTML to launch next-generation mobile services across Pakistan.
The spectrum was acquired at a total price of $156.75 million following competitive bidding. The assignment stage, held on March 12, determined the specific frequency positions within each band, with PTML securing its preferred positions.
Spectrum Details
PTML acquired spectrum in two key bands:
- 60 MHz in the 2600 MHz band
- 120 MHz in the 3500 MHz band
This brings the company’s total spectrum allocation in the auction to 180 MHz. The 3500 MHz band is particularly important for 5G deployment, offering the wide channels needed for high-speed data services. The 2600 MHz band provides additional capacity and coverage capabilities.
Strategic Importance
The spectrum acquisition significantly strengthens PTML’s position in Pakistan’s telecommunications market. The company operates consumer brands including Ufone, Telenor, and Onic. With this new spectrum, PTML can:
- Launch commercial 5G services across the country
- Enhance existing 4G network capacity and performance
- Offer improved mobile broadband experiences to subscribers
- Build next-generation digital infrastructure
- Compete effectively in the evolving telecom landscape
Next Steps
Following the auction results announced by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), PTML will now complete regulatory formalities and sign the NGMS/5G license with the regulator. The company will then begin the rollout of 5G services nationwide.
PTCL has committed to keeping the market informed of further developments regarding the spectrum acquisition and licensing process in accordance with applicable regulations.
About PTCL and PTML
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) is the country’s largest telecommunications company. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Pak Telecom Mobile Limited (PTML), operates mobile services under the Ufone, Telenor Pakistan, and Onic brands, serving millions of subscribers across the country.
About the 5G Spectrum Auction
The NGMS/5G auction conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) allocated spectrum in multiple bands to enable telecom operators to launch next-generation mobile services. The 3500 MHz band is considered prime spectrum for 5G deployment globally due to its favorable characteristics for high-speed, high-capacity services.
