PTML (Ufone) enters 5G race with largest share of global standard 3.5GHz spectrum

KARACHI: Pakistani telecom operator, Pak Telecom Mobile Limited (PTML), operating as Ufone, has formally entered Pakistan’s 5G landscape armed with the largest share of the critical 3500MHz frequency band, a global standard in 5G connectivity.

Subject to regulatory approvals, the planned amalgamation of Telenor Pakistan into Ufone is expected to position the combined entity, MergeCo, as the largest spectrum holder in Pakistan’s telecom industry.

MergeCo will hold the largest and most diversified spectrum portfolio of 292.4MHz, 8MHz more than the closest competitor, spanning low, mid, and high frequency bands. This will position the company to deliver top quality digital services to both individual and enterprise customers.

PTML (Ufone) followed an aggressive 5G acquisition strategy to secure the largest share in the 3500MHz band, which is the global benchmark for 5G, alongside an additional 60MHz in the 2600MHz band to deliver blazing fast data speeds and a consistently superior user experience.

Moreover, PTML’s 120MHz contiguous spectrum will support wider 5G channels in line with global standards, translating into higher peak speeds, faster and more stable data throughput, and the ability to serve a significantly larger number of concurrent users, particularly in high-demand urban environments.

Post amalgamation, the MergeCo’s enhanced capacity will unlock a new generation of digital experiences, including seamless ultra-high-definition streaming, immersive cloud gaming, augmented and virtual reality applications, and faster access to a growing ecosystem of digital platforms and services serving both Individual and Corporate customers.

Apart from clocking blistering speeds, MergeCo will lead in nationwide coverage. With 44.8MHz of spectrum, the largest in industry, in low-frequency bands such as 850 MHz and 900 MHz, the company is well-positioned to extend reliable internet services across rural and semi-urban areas.

Commenting on this milestone, President and CEO, PTCL & Ufone, Hatem Bamatraf said, “PTML now controls the largest share of the global standard 3.5GHz spectrum, twice as much as any competitor, giving us the ability to set the benchmark for speed and performance in Pakistan.”

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026