Here’s How PTA Will Assign 5G Spectrum Blocks Across Bands

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that all spectrum awarded in the 5G auction will be assigned in contiguous blocks, addressing concerns about spectrum fragmentation during the assignment stage.

PTA said the assignment stage will determine the exact frequency positions within each spectrum band. Bidders will compete for relative positions such as bottom, middle, or top of the band, rather than specific frequency values.

According to the authority, when multiple bidders win spectrum within the same band, the exact frequencies for bidders placed in the middle will depend on the outcomes of other bidders’ assignments. PTA clarified that bidders competing for middle positions will not know their exact frequency locations at the time of bidding, as these depend on which bidders secure the top or bottom positions.

This assignment structure will apply across the spectrum bands, including the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz ranges.

PTA also confirmed that any unallocated spectrum in the 3500 MHz band will be placed at the top of the band, defined as the highest available frequencies below 3580 MHz. For other bands, the placement of unsold spectrum will follow predefined rules set out in the Information Memorandum.

The authority said the assignment stage will follow the same pricing principles as the allocation stage. Assignment prices will be charged in addition to allocation prices, with opening prices set at zero.