Pakistan will soon launch 5G services, starting in seven major cities, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced Tuesday. The move comes amid growing broadband penetration and rising demand for faster mobile internet.
Speaking at the opening of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo at the Expo Centre in Karachi, Minister Khawaja said that the roll-out of 5G will begin in the coming months. She also acknowledged current challenges, particularly in ensuring reliable internet access throughout the country.
What the Minister Said
The minister promised that internet reliability will improve and that efforts are underway to enhance infrastructure, especially fibre expansion and submarine cable capacity, to address recent disruptions.
She described information technology as a key part of the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia cooperation agreement, highlighting how digital infrastructure plays a central role in broader economic growth and stability.
On economic indicators, she said inflation has eased, fears of default have lessened, and macroeconomic stability is improving. She also noted that Karachi remains a critical hub for Pakistan’s economic development.
Challenges Ahead
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s recent reports, the country’s shift to 5G faces significant hurdles:
- Financial pressure: The cost of upgrading networks, acquiring spectrum, deploying advanced antennas, building fibre-optic backhaul systems, and installing small cells is high. Telecom operators are concerned about long return periods on these investments.
- Availability of suitable devices: Many users do not yet have handsets that support 5G. This limits how quickly people can adopt the service even when infrastructure is ready.
- Digital divide: Rural and remote areas may lag behind urban centres due to higher deployment costs, lower density, and logistical challenges. Ensuring equitable access is flagged as a major concern.
What to Expect
If things proceed as planned:
- 5G services will be launched in seven major cities first.
- Users should see gradual improvements in network quality, particularly in urban centres. Rural regions may see slower progress due to the cost and infrastructure challenges.
- The government may lean on public-private partnerships and incentives to help telecom companies bear upfront costs.
