First phase of Pakistan’s 5G rollout aims to boost broadband speeds, expand coverage, and strengthen digital infrastructure nationwide.
Pakistan is moving ahead with its plans to introduce next-generation mobile connectivity, as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has outlined ambitious deployment targets for cellular mobile operators under the first phase of the country’s commercial 5G rollout.
According to official documents, each licensed cellular mobile operator will be required to establish 2,000 5G sites across Pakistan by 2028.
The initiative forms part of Phase I of the national 5G deployment strategy, which covers the period from 2026 to 2028 and is designed to accelerate digital transformation, improve internet performance, and strengthen telecommunications infrastructure.
As part of the roadmap, telecom operators must also upgrade at least 20 percent of their existing 4G sites in federal and provincial capitals to 5G technology during the first phase. The move is expected to enhance network capacity in major urban centers and lay the foundation for broader 5G expansion in the coming years.
The PTA has additionally directed operators to increase the Fiber-to-the-Tower (FTTT) ratio to 20 percent. Greater fiber connectivity is considered essential for supporting high-speed 5G networks, ensuring improved service quality, reduced latency, and enhanced network reliability.
The regulatory framework also introduces higher mobile broadband performance standards. Current average 4G speeds, estimated at around 4 Mbps, are targeted to reach a median throughput of 20 Mbps.
For 5G services, the PTA has established a minimum baseline speed of 50 Mbps, with a phased objective of achieving median speeds of 100 Mbps as network deployment progresses.
Industry preparations for the rollout are already underway. Telecom operators have started infrastructure development in selected areas, including the installation of new base transceiver stations, modernization of existing networks, and integration of newly allocated spectrum bands.
The rollout has also triggered significant procurement and import of telecommunications equipment, while operators continue preparations for widespread availability of 5G-compatible devices and supporting technologies.
Pakistan’s commercial 5G program will be implemented in four phases. During the ongoing first phase, the PTA will closely monitor operators’ compliance with deployment obligations, coverage commitments, and service quality benchmarks to ensure a successful nationwide introduction of advanced mobile broadband services.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in improving digital connectivity, supporting innovation, and enabling faster internet access for consumers and businesses across Pakistan.