Pakistan Misses Another Deadline for 5G Launch Due to Legal and Regulatory Hurdles

Pakistan has once again failed to meet its 5G launch deadline, missing the most recent target of June 30, 2025. This is the fourth time the country has delayed its 5G rollout, despite repeated promises from government officials, including Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja.

n a recent interview with Samaa TV, Shaza Fatima explained that the delay is due to legal issues and pending regulatory approvals. She mentioned that although a third-party firm has completed its recommendations for the 5G auction, the Spectrum Auction Committee — led by the finance minister — has yet to meet and finalize the pricing and terms. She expressed hope for progress soon but did not offer a new deadline.

A major obstacle is the ongoing legal conflict between the government and telecom companies. Due to these disputes, 146 MHz out of the 196 MHz of spectrum meant for 5G is currently under a court stay, making it difficult to hold a proper auction. The situation is further complicated by the still-pending merger approval between Telenor and PTCL from the Competition Commission of Pakistan.

Pakistan has now missed several self-set deadlines, starting from December 2022, followed by revised dates in July 2023, August 2024, and now June 2025. Until legal and regulatory issues are resolved, the country’s move to next-generation mobile technology remains on hold.