Delay in telecom spectrum allocation could cost Pakistan $4.3B

Pakistan could lose $4.3 billion over the next five years if it fails to allocate telecom spectrum on time, the GSMA warned Tuesday, urging reforms to speed up digital adoption and economic growth.

Telecom spectrum is the invisible airwaves that carry phone calls and mobile internet. It powers 4G for now and 5G in the future. Without enough affordable spectrum, networks slow down and coverage gaps grow

To address the issue, Industry stakeholders and representatives from the GSMA, a trade association representing the interests of mobile network operators worldwide, held a meeting on Tuesday in Islamabad.

The meeting was also attended by senior Cabinet members including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Technology Minister Shaza Fatima and Law Minister Azam Tarar.

Industry stakeholders and the GSMA stressed the importance of timely spectrum allocation to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation, boost exports and create jobs.

“Spectrum is the invisible infrastructure behind every call, every payment, every online classroom. To unlock Pakistan’s digital future, we need policies that encourage investment, not hesitation,” said Jazz mobile network CEO Aamir Ibrahim.

GSMA Asia Pacific head Julian Gorman highlighted that spectrum is central to economic development and digital ambitions, warning that delays could cost Pakistan $1.8 billion in two years and $4.3 billion over the next five years.

He noted Pakistan’s internet speeds rank 98th out of 104 countries and that high spectrum costs—about 20% of operators’ revenues—limit coverage and quality.

He urged the government to adopt reforms including lower reserve prices, payments in Pakistani rupees, flexible fee structures, and a transparent spectrum roadmap.

Gorman stressed that low-band spectrum is critical for digital equality, underpinning affordable and nationwide connectivity.

“Without affordable spectrum, AI-enabled governance, cashless payments, and digital public services cannot scale,” he warned, adding that telecom and IT are “low-hanging fruit” for driving exports, targeting $25 billion by 2030.