When 5G launched in Pakistan and Who Launched It?

5G in Pakistan: Launch Timeline, Key Players, Pricing, and Future Outlook

In recent years, the world has seen a major transformation in telecommunications with the rollout of 5G (fifth-generation mobile networks). This new standard promises ultra-high speeds, extremely low latency, and the ability to connect millions of devices at once. Countries around the globe have raced to adopt 5G technology, and Pakistan’s journey toward 5G connectivity has been long and eagerly anticipated. In this comprehensive article, we explore when 5G launched in Pakistan, who launched it, how pricing works, and what it means for consumers and businesses.

What is 5G and Why Does It Matter?

Before diving into Pakistan’s specific story, let’s briefly define 5G.

5G represents the fifth level of advancement in mobile communication networks, designed to deliver faster speeds and more efficient connectivity than earlier generations. It significantly improves upon earlier generations like 4G, offering:

• Much faster internet speeds — potentially up to 10 gigabits per second in ideal conditions.

• Lower latency, meaning quicker response times — critical for remote gaming, AR/VR applications, and automated systems.

• Greater capacity — able to support many more connected devices simultaneously — ideal for smart cities and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

The arrival of 5G unlocks new possibilities for industries such as healthcare (remote surgery), manufacturing (automation), logistics (smart tracking), and entertainment (AR/VR streaming).

When Did 5G Launch in Pakistan?

Unlike some neighboring countries that launched 5G as early as 2019, Pakistan’s official commercial rollout of 5G services occurred later and in phases. According to local reports and telecom planning documents, the initial expectation was set for June 2025 as the starting point for the telecom companies to begin 5G rollout following spectrum auctions and regulatory approval.

Although many announcements focused on planned rollout timelines around mid-2025, these early rollouts targeted major cities and specific commercial zones rather than nationwide coverage. This phased approach reflects both regulatory preparation and infrastructure deployment challenges.

In short: 5G services began launching in Pakistan around mid-2025, with operators starting deployments for commercial use in major urban areas.

Who Launched 5G in Pakistan?

The introduction of 5G services in Pakistan was not carried out by the government alone — it involved:

1. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)

The primary regulator for telecommunications in Pakistan — PTA — played a pivotal role in organizing the spectrum auction, setting policy, and overseeing rollout preparations. It worked jointly with the Ministry of IT & Telecom to complete the policy framework required for the rollout of 5G services.

2. Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication (MoITT)

This government ministry helped craft the roadmap, set timelines, and finalize reforms needed to facilitate the 5G auction. Together with PTA, the ministry ensured that the regulatory framework was ready for operators to launch services.

3. Telecom Operators (Jazz, Zong, and Others)

When Pakistan commenced its 5G rollout, major telecom companies led the effort in deploying services:

• Jazz — Pakistan’s largest mobile network operator — began trialing 5G and was among the first operators to roll out services as soon as spectrum became available.

• Zong (CMPak) — another leading provider, backed by China Mobile’s technology and expertise, also spearheaded early 5G deployments, often in key business districts and high demand areas.

Other operators like Ufone and Telenor had conducted trials and preparations, but widespread commercial rollout generally centered around Jazz and Zong initially.

Where was 5G First Available in Pakistan?

Pakistan’s 5G rollout did not start nationwide. Instead, the network was first introduced in major metropolitan cities, where demand for high-speed mobile internet is strongest and telecom infrastructure is most developed. These cities included:

• Islamabad — the capital and a tech hub

• Lahore — major cultural and economic center

• Karachi — largest city and financial capital

Testing also occurred in other major centers, with expansion plans targeting additional urban regions over 2025–2026.

What Affects 5G Pricing in Pakistan?

Unlike countries where 5G pricing is relatively standardized, Pakistan’s pricing landscape has unique challenges and influences:

1. Spectrum Auction Pricing

The cost at which telecom spectrum bands — especially mid-band and high-band frequencies used for 5G — are sold can influence how operators price their services. Some industry leaders have argued that pricing in foreign currencies (such as the U.S. dollar) increases financial pressure on operators and may lead to higher consumer prices.

2. Device Availability

To use 5G, customers must have a 5G-capable handset. These phones typically cost more than basic 3G/4G models, affecting adoption rates and perceived value of 5G packages.

3. Competitive Market Dynamics

Competition between operators like Jazz, Zong, Ufone, and Telenor affects pricing, with operators offering different data bundles and perks to attract customers as 5G matures.

Typical 5G Data Pricing Expectations

At the time of initial rollout, telecom operators in Pakistan were still rolling out 5G services and packages. Detailed official 5G pricing from networks like Jazz or Zong will continue to emerge as coverage expands. However, based on expected industry trends and informal package listings:

Estimated Monthly 5G Plans (in PKR)

(These are indicative and subject to official releases — based on current projections in 2025)

These prices represent expected range based on market predictions and how 4G premium plans compare. Real pricing may vary significantly once official commercial 5G packages are fully launched.

How Do 5G Prices Compare to 4G?

In general terms:

• 5G packages tend to be priced higher than 4G due to the increased cost of infrastructure and spectrum.

• Entry-level 5G may start at similar or slightly higher levels than premium 4G bundles, but mid-range and high-capacity 5G plans are typically more costly.

• As infrastructure expands and competition grows, prices usually fall over time.

5G pricing tends to reflect both speed tier and data allowances, with heavier data and enterprise focused offerings priced accordingly.

What You Need to Use 5G in Pakistan

To access 5G services, consumers must:

1. Have a 5G-capable smartphone or device — older phones will not work on 5G bands.

2. Be in an area with active 5G coverage — initially major metropolitan zones.

3. Subscribe to a 5G-enabled data plan from a network provider such as Jazz or Zong.

Those factors together determine whether a person can benefit from 5G speeds and low latency.

Expected Benefits of 5G in Pakistan

5G has potential transformative effects across many sectors:

Faster Speeds and Better Streaming

With 5G, users can expect significantly faster downloads, smoother video streaming, and quicker upload speeds compared to 4G.

Smart Cities and IoT Growth

5G supports “smart” environments — cities that use connected sensors for traffic, energy efficiency, and public services.

Healthcare and Education Advancements

Telemedicine, remote education platforms, and real-time diagnostics become more accessible with higher bandwidth.

Business and Industrial Growth

From automated manufacturing to augmented reality applications, 5G can unlock new business models and innovations.

Challenges Facing 5G Adoption in Pakistan

While the rollout brings benefits, there are challenges:

Infrastructure Readiness

5G requires more fiber connections and base station upgrades, which are ongoing in Pakistan’s rollout strategy.

Cost of Spectrum and Investment

Operators often cite high upfront costs of spectrum and equipment as barriers to rapid deployment, especially given Pakistan’s economic conditions.

Device Affordability

Not all users can afford 5G-ready devices, making adoption slower among lower income groups.

Future of 5G in Pakistan

Pakistan’s 5G rollout continues to evolve. With initial services emerging around mid-2025 and coverage expanding into 2026 and beyond, the country is poised for a gradual but significant digital transformation with ultra-fast connectivity. Continued infrastructure investment, more competitive pricing, and improved device affordability will accelerate adoption over time.

5G technology marks a pivotal step in Pakistan’s digital connectivity journey. With commercial rollout beginning around mid-2025, led by regulatory bodies like PTA and telecom giants such as Jazz and Zong, Pakistan is joining the global shift toward next-generation wireless communication. While pricing and coverage will improve over time, early adopters are already tapping into the benefits of faster speeds, low latency, and future-ready connectivity.

The transition to 5G also brings opportunities — from smarter cities and innovative business solutions to enhanced digital experiences for everyday users. As Pakistan continues to build out its 5G networks and expand access, consumers and industries alike stand to gain from this transformative technology.