IT Ministry Urges Finance Minister to Hold Urgent Auction Meeting to Launch 5G in Pakistan

Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima has urged the Finance Minister to convene a meeting of the Auction Advisory Committee to move forward with the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction. Speaking to reporters, Shaza Fatima stated that the Ministry of IT has formally requested a meeting, emphasizing that with the federal budget now concluded, there is no reason for further delay. “The Finance Minister himself is taking interest in the 5G auction,” she noted, expressing hope that the Advisory Committee meeting will be held soon. She revealed that an international consultant has completed a world-class report on the 5G auction, which is now ready for review. The Advisory Committee will examine this report before making a final decision. Shaza Fatima also mentioned that the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) must make a determination on the proposed merger of two telecom companies. The CCP is an independent body, and its decision is awaited, she said, adding that the Advisory Committee has already referred the matter to the Commission. The delay in the Advisory Committee meeting, she added, has also been influenced by ongoing judicial proceedings. However, she stressed that the auction process will only move forward once the Committee meets and reviews all reports and legal considerations.