Pakistan: National Frequency Allocation Update (NGMS / 5G)
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has finalized the assignment stage for the Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) spectrum auction, specifically targeting the rollout of 5G services. This update marks a significant shift in the allocation of mid-band spectrum for cellular communications within the country.
Key Frequency Allocations for 5G Services:
2600 MHz Band: A total of 190 MHz has been assigned to mobile network operators. Jazz has secured 70 MHz, while Zong and Ufone have each been assigned 60 MHz. This band is a primary candidate for high-capacity 5G deployments.
3500 MHz Band: This band is designated as a core 5G frequency. Ufone has secured a significant 120 MHz block, while Jazz and Zong have each acquired 50 MHz. It is noted that 60 MHz currently remains unsold in this band.
Impact on Type Approval and Device Compliance:
Cellular Devices: Manufacturers of mobile handsets and cellular-enabled IoT devices must ensure that hardware intended for the Pakistani market supports these specific frequency assignments to ensure compatibility with national 5G networks.
Short Range Devices (SRD): Standard harmonized bands for WiFi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Bluetooth, and BLE continue to follow established regulatory frameworks. However, the introduction of 5G in the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz ranges necessitates strict adherence to emission limits to prevent interference with these newly licensed cellular services.
Coordination and Restrictions: The use of the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands is strictly licensed to the assigned operators (Jazz, Zong, and Ufone). Any non-cellular use of these bands is prohibited to avoid harmful interference with public mobile networks.
This assignment stage completes a major phase of the NGMS roadmap, replacing or augmenting previous spectrum frameworks to accommodate the transition to 5G technology in Pakistan.
