The PTA pointed out number of barricades in launching 5G in the country. The challenges include substantial investment, slow return on investment, and availability of compatible handsets.

The officials said that in order to upgrade the current network and infrastructure, the substantial amount of investment is required. They further stated that the advanced antennas, and extensive fiber optic backhaul have to be installed to introduce 5G.

This poses a substantial financial challenge for telecom operators due to expensive stuff. Furthermore, the return on investment could take time, leading to caution among operators when committing large capital expenditures upfront. Government incentives and private-public partnerships (PPPs) could play a key role in alleviating this financial burden and encourage the required investments. Bridging the digital divide remains a critical challenge in the 5G rollout in Pakistan.

Initially, the technology will be available for urban areas, the rural and remote areas face delays owing to the high costs and logistical challenges. The availability of 5G handsets also poses a hurdle in the way of adoption.

As many people are unaware of the benefits of the cutting-edge technology, the promotion of 5G will be another huge challenge. Concerns about health effects and misconceptions surrounding 5G can also impede public acceptance. There is need to spread awareness about 5G, government and telecom operators could play crucial role in this regard. Transparent communication will be crucial in building trust and driving widespread adoption.

The 5G implementation process is underway, with efforts focused on preparing for its successful rollout by mid-2025, according to the Authority. Backhaul infrastructure is a key factor in ensuring 5G readiness, as it significantly affects the performance and capacity of 5G networks. Pakistan has been prioritizing backhaul readiness as an essential step toward 5G deployment.

The PTA worked closely with telecom operators to upgrade their infrastructure for high-capacity backhaul during the year. By monitoring compliance and encouraging investments in backhaul infrastructure, the PTA aims to prepare Pakistan s telecom sector for the efficient rollout and operation of 5G networks across the country.