ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on Tuesday described the NGMS/5G Spectrum Auction conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) as a historic milestone that will accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation and strengthen the country’s digital economy.
According to Ministry of Finance, the Finance Minister addressed participants at the spectrum auction ceremony held at a local hotel, where he remarked on the culmination of extensive efforts over the past year and a half to finalize the auction framework. He noted the Spectrum Committee’s detailed deliberations, which he chaired, aimed at optimizing revenue while fostering an ecosystem conducive to advancing Pakistan’s digital journey.
Senator Aurangzeb acknowledged that the process for the spectrum auction commenced earlier under the Minister for Information Technology’s leadership during her previous tenure in 2021. He praised the continuity of policy across successive administrations, emphasizing sustained policy direction as essential for progress. The auction was termed an important moment for all stakeholders involved.
The Finance Minister stressed that digital development serves broader economic and social progress. He highlighted that improved digital connectivity would offer faster, cheaper, and better services, unlocking opportunities across various economic sectors.
He further underscored the significance of the IT and IT-enabled services sector, pointing out that enhanced digital infrastructure would bolster growth, particularly in boosting exports and creating jobs. He mentioned the government’s role in providing the ecosystem that allows the private sector to drive economic growth.
In addition, he referred to ongoing initiatives advancing the digital agenda, including support for freelancers, the Prime Minister’s Digital Pakistan vision, and the expansion of digital infrastructure. He noted that greater spectrum availability and the rollout of 5G services would support emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, aiding Pakistan’s transition to a modern digital economy.
Senator Aurangzeb also highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure during crises, referencing the Prime Minister’s recent announcement on enhanced digital capacity enabling transitions to online education and remote work.
Concluding his remarks, he thanked the Spectrum Committee members and all stakeholders for their contributions. He expressed confidence that the spectrum auction would improve connectivity, innovation, and economic opportunities across Pakistan.