ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will this week begin the process of selling unusedtelecom spectrum in an auction it hopes will raise around $1 billion andenhance network capacity, said three senior government officials familiarwith the matter.
The spectrum is in the 1800 and 2100 MHz bands typically used by operatorsfor 4G LTE (long-term evolution) networks that offer faster video streamingand Internet downloads, said the officials.
They asked not to be named as they were not authorised to discuss thematter with the media.
The country plans to kick-start the process by laying out plans to retainan international consulting firm that would design the auction process, andadvise on base pricing and other details, they said, adding that no saledate has yet been set.
Pakistan is anxious to replenish state coffers that have been hit by aslump in the economy and in tax collections exacerbated by the coronaviruspandemic.
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A spokesman for Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said the processto hire a consultant for “Spectrum Auction 2020-21” has been initiated. Hedeclined to give further details.
The country has some 85 million 3G/4G subscribers, and the upcoming auctionis seen a precursor to any 5G launch.
