Pakistan’s long-awaited 5G spectrum auction has moved into its decisive phase, with leading telecom operators beginning to fulfill the financial conditions laid down by the regulator.

Two major players, Ufone and Zong, have deposited the mandatory pre-bid amount of $15 million each with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority ahead of the auction scheduled for March 10.

The PTA has set February 27 as the final date for submitting earnest money. Once the deadline passes, the authority will release the official list of eligible bidders. Industry sources indicate that Jazz is also expected to submit its deposit within the next couple of days, signaling strong likelihood of participation.

Under auction rules, prospective bidders must submit $15 million to qualify, with the amount later adjustable against the final license price for those who secure spectrum.

Officials said the auction will be deemed successful if at least half of the available 597 MHz spectrum—roughly 300 MHz—is sold. Participation from a minimum of three cellular operators is considered sufficient to meet this benchmark and maintain competitive bidding. Policymakers and investors are closely tracking the process, as the outcome is expected to shape the trajectory of next-generation telecom services in the country.

Following the recent acquisition of Telenor Pakistan by Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited, which operates Ufone, the number of major telecom operators has effectively narrowed to three. PTA officials said clarity on whether any new entrant will join the 5G race will only emerge after the February 27 cutoff.

As per the auction timeline, the PTA will publish the list of qualified bidders on March 3, followed by a bidders’ seminar on March 4 and a mock auction on March 5. The final auction on March 10 is expected to pave the way for ultra-fast internet speeds, low-latency services, and broader digital infrastructure growth across Pakistan.