Pakistan’s push toward fifth-generation mobile services gained decisive momentum on Thursday after the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority confirmed that all three major cellular operators have formally qualified for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction.

Briefing the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology, PTA Chairman Hafeez-ur-Rehman said Jazz, Ufone, and Zong have each deposited the mandatory USD 15 million bid bond, clearing a key regulatory hurdle for participation.

Regulators disclosed that six spectrum bands, including four new bands, will be placed on the block, with a minimum of 300 MHz expected to be auctioned. The deadline for bid submissions has been set for February 27, while the auction itself will take place on March 10.

PTA officials assured lawmakers that the auction will be conducted in a transparent, competitive, and non-discriminatory manner, stressing that the additional spectrum will not only pave the way for 5G services but also deliver immediate improvements in mobile broadband performance across the country.

The confirmation of full operator participation is being viewed as a critical step toward accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation and unlocking next-generation connectivity nationwide.