PTA says 5G services to launch without immediate price hike

Pakistan’s mobile phone users are unlikely to face an immediate price shock when 5G services are launched, as telecom operators are expected to initially offer next-generation services through their existing prepaid and postpaid data packages before introducing premium plans as the technology matures.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) official documents revealed that consumers with compatible smartphones in areas covered by 5G would initially be able to access the new technology through existing data bundles without requiring dedicated 5G packages.

“Initially, mobile network operators are expected to offer 5G services through existing prepaid and postpaid data packages for customers with compatible devices and within 5G coverage areas,” the regulator stated.

However, the authority indicated that operators are expected to gradually shift towards differentiated pricing as network investments increase.

“Over time, operators may introduce premium packages with enhanced data allowances as 5G requires substantial investment in spectrum acquisition, network modernization and infrastructure deployment,” the PTA added.

The response provides the indication yet of the likely pricing strategy for Pakistan’s long-awaited commercial 5G rollout, suggesting that operators will initially focus on expanding adoption rather than charging an immediate premium for the service.

The PTA also sought to allay consumer concerns over compatibility and affordability, saying users would not need to replace their SIM cards to access 5G.

According to the regulator, existing 4G-capable SIMs are sufficient for connecting to 5G networks, eliminating the need for SIM upgrades.

Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) have also assured the PTA that 5G tariffs would initially remain at par with existing mobile broadband services to facilitate mass adoption.

The authority said recent nationwide quality-of-service measurements indicate that Pakistan’s mobile networks are already delivering speeds capable of supporting advanced broadband services.

The latest tests recorded average 5G download speeds of 135.42 Mbps on Ufone, 133.65 Mbps on Jazz and 108.66 Mbps on Zong, based on measurements conducted using Rohde & Schwarz quality-of-service monitoring equipment.

The regulator has consistently argued that wider smartphone ownership will be essential for the success of 5G.

In separate submissions to lawmakers, the PTA has urged the government to rationalise taxes and duties on mobile handsets, warning that high taxation is increasing smartphone prices, slowing broadband penetration and delaying digital inclusion, particularly among low-income users and rural communities.