PTA to hold spectrum auction in 21 September

August 8, 2021

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The Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) is all set to auction Telecom Spectrums as it has invited applications from Pakistan and foreign mobile operators for 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz frequencies for next generation mobile services (NGMS).

PTA has released an Information Memorandum (IM) stating that the auction is scheduled for September 21, 2021; However, according to sources, operators may need more time to negotiate.

However, the auction can be held no later than September 30, 2021.

The Spectrum Auction is designed to use the internationally compatible 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz frequencies.

The spectrum included in the frequency auction includes: a) 2 x 12.8 MHz in the 1800 MHz band; b) 2×15 MHz (1960-1975 MHz / 2150-2165 MHz) in the 2100 MHz range.

The 2 x 12.8 MHz frequency in the 1800 MHz band is grouped into one 2 x 5 MHz block and 39 2 x 0.2 MHz blocks. Candidates have a maximum spectrum limit of 30 MHz (40% of the total spectrum) in the 1800 MHz band.

The 2 x 15 MHz frequency in the 2100 MHz band is grouped into three 2 x 5 MHz groups: a) 2 x 5 MHz (1960-1965 MHz / 2150-2155 MHz); b) 2 x 5 MHz (1965-1970 MHz / 2155-2160 MHz); c) 2 x 5 MHz (1970-1975 MHz / 2160-2165 MHz).

In the 1800 MHz band, a maximum spectrum has been set, which limits the amount of spectrum available in the 1800 MHz auction. This is set to 40% of all frequencies in this band – just 2×30 MHz, taking into account the spectrum of each CMO including the sub-rule.