PTA sets strict service and consumer protection conditions ahead of 5G Spectrum auction

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has finalised comprehensive service-related conditions for the issuance of 5G licences, making several obligations mandatory for telecom operators ahead of the upcoming spectrum auction.

Under the new framework, companies awarded 5G licences will be required to provide emergency services and ensure full compliance with lawful interception and monitoring requirements in line with prevailing laws.

The regulator has also imposed strict standards on service quality and availability, prohibiting any form of discrimination against consumers.

The PTA has linked 5G tariffs to the Telecom Consumer Protection Regulations 2009, clarifying that aggressive or anti-competitive pricing strategies will not be permitted.

Operators holding significant market power may have their tariffs regulated directly by the authority, according to official documents.

Licence holders will also be obligated to safeguard consumer data and privacy, ensure the confidentiality of communications, and publish 4G and 5G network coverage maps on their websites.

Promoting local manufacturing of mobile and telecom equipment has been made a mandatory condition for 5G operators.

In addition, telecom companies will be required to submit performance bank guarantees to meet network coverage targets and strictly adhere to PTA-defined quality-of-service benchmarks.

Meanwhile, officials confirmed that the 5G spectrum auction is expected to be held by the end of February 2026.