Exciting news for Pakistan’s digital future! The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has chosen National Economic Research Associates (NERA), a U.S.-based consultancy firm, to spearhead the 5G spectrum auction process. With the auction slated to boost next-generation mobile broadband services, Pakistan is set to complete the process by April 2025.
🔑 Key Updates:
- NERA’s Role: Consultancy services for 5G spectrum auction
- Auction Timeline: Expected completion by April 2025
- Contract Value: $0.75 million
- PTA and NERA: Agreement to be formalized this week
📝 What Does NERA Bring to the Table?
💡 Expert Spectrum Analysis
NERA will assess Pakistan’s existing cellular and IMT spectrum allocations, benchmark them against regional practices, and propose a phased auction plan for paired and unpaired spectrums.
📊 Valuation & Payment Schedules
The firm will provide insights into spectrum pricing, determining the cost per MHz for bands like 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600, and 3500 MHz. It will also offer flexible payment schedules such as installment plans, aligning them with rollout obligations and long-term market projections.
📅 What’s Next?
NERA has 60 working days to submit its spectrum valuation report, including the base price and other technical parameters. The final 5G auction strategy will focus on improving mobile broadband services, addressing Pakistan’s growing digital needs.
📈 What Does This Mean for Pakistan?
The 5G auction is expected to drive significant growth in mobile broadband, attracting global investments and unlocking new opportunities in AI, IoT, and smart cities. With NERA at the helm, the process is expected to be smooth, transparent, and aligned with international best practices.
