The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has released essential details regarding the upcoming Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) auction, scheduled for 2026. The announcement covers the spectrum bands to be offered, the lot structure for the auction, and the technical limits that will apply to each band. These details are crucial for telecom operators, investors, and policymakers seeking to understand the opportunities and constraints of Pakistan’s 5G implementation.
1. Spectrum Bands for the 5G Auction
- 2.30 GHz (3690–3840 MHz) – This narrowband (NB) allocation provides a balance between coverage and capacity, suitable for dense urban deployments and mid‑cell coverage.
- 3.50 GHz (3550–3600 MHz) – A mid‑band spectrum that delivers high data rates with improved penetration, ideal for both urban and suburban areas.
- 26 GHz (26000–26500 MHz) – A high‑band option that offers extremely dense coverage and large bandwidths for high‑capacity hotspots and enterprise services.
- 28 GHz (26100–26800 MHz) – Complementary to the 26 GHz band, 28 GHz provides additional capacity for densely populated and commercial zones.
2. Auction Lot Structure
The auction will be divided into two main lots (LOT A and LOT B), each comprising the four frequency bands. The structure is designed to allow operators to bid selectively on the bands that best match their network strategies:
- LOT A: 2.30 GHz, 3.50 GHz, 26 GHz, 28 GHz (full spectrum) – this large lot offers operators the full 5G portfolio in a single bid.
- LOT B: Separate bids per band – operators can target specific bands, allowing a more tailored asset acquisition strategy and potentially lower initial investment.
3. Technical Limits and Specifications
For each spectrum band, PTA has set specific technical limits to ensure optimal network performance and spectrum efficiency:
- Carrier Frequency: Specified ranges as per the bands listed above.
- Maximum Power (EIRP): Limits set to 38 dBm for 2.30 GHz, 43 dBm for 3.50 GHz, and 42 dBm for the 26/28 GHz bands.
- Bandwidth per Carrier: 30 MHz for the 2.30 GHz, 38 MHz for the 3.50 GHz, and up to 100 MHz in the 26/28 GHz bands.
- Carrier Aggregation: Up to 5 carriers per system for 5G NR, enabling dynamic spectrum usage.
- Link Budget and QoS: Minimum link budget of 85 dB for core 5G services, ensuring coverage targets of 95% in tier‑1 cities.
4. Next Steps for Operators
- Review the technical document: Operators should download the full PTAP 5G auction document to understand qualifications.
- Prepare bidding strategy: Evaluate which lot (A or B) best aligns with your network expansion plans.
- Ensure regulatory compliance: Align with PTA’s licensing requirements and local spectrum regulations.
- Plan deployment: Start feasibility studies for 5G rollout once spectrum allocation is confirmed.
By leveraging the newly defined spectrum bands and understanding the auction structure and limits, operators can position themselves to capitalize on Pakistan’s 5G revolution. Stay tuned for further updates as PTA prepares to open the auction bids in the coming months.
