By Sumavaya Iqbal 
Pakistan is on the brink of a technological revolution with its impending 5G spectrum auction, set to be completed by April 2025. This highly anticipated event has drawn significant interest from the global consultancy sector, with eleven prominent international consultants and joint ventures (JVs) submitting expressions of interest (EOIs) to aid in the auction process. This highlights the strategic importance of Pakistan in the global telecommunications landscape.
Top International Consultants in the Race
The firms that have expressed interest include:
- Aetha Consulting Ltd & Specure GmbH
- Coleago Consulting Limited
- Communicators Globe (Pvt.) Ltd and Cenerva Ltd
- Detecon Consulting FZ-LLC
- VTT Global and NE&S
- Frontier Economics Ltd
- Warm Waters Advisory & Analysis Mason Limited
- SAYBi Ltd & Cognitio
- National Economic Research Associates Inc. (NERA) with Windsor Place Consulting and Optimal Auctions
- Joint Venture/Consortium of Copenhagen Economics, Omnitele, KomKonsult Private Limited, Innovative Auctions and Macmillan Keck Attorneys & Solicitors
- Intercai Mondiale Ltd & TEACH
Among these, JHK Construction’s submission is notable as an error, given its unrelated industry.
PTA’s Rigorous Selection Process
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued an advertisement through various media channels, inviting EOIs for this critical consultancy role. Following the receipt of these EOIs, the PTA will shortlist firms and issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the selected consultants. This comprehensive selection process ensures that only the most qualified firms are chosen.
Key Responsibilities of the Consultants
The selected consultancy firms will have several vital responsibilities, including:
- Stakeholder Engagement: Conducting thorough consultations with key stakeholders.
- Professional Analysis: Providing detailed and strategic analysis.
- Transparent Auction Process: Ensuring a transparent and competitive auction, preventing any collusion.
Detailed Terms of Reference (ToRs)
The consultancy firms will operate under specific Terms of Reference (ToRs), which include:
- IMT Spectrum Strategy: Developing a strategy to maximize the release of IMT Spectrum, fostering technology-neutral Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services. This strategy should reflect international best practices, adapted to Pakistan’s unique market needs.
- 5G Implementation Modeling: Creating models for the 5G launch and implementation based on global and regional best practices, focusing on viable use cases for Pakistan and effective monetization models.
- Spectrum Valuation: Conducting spectrum valuation across various bands, including future projections and innovative payment methods such as flexible installment plans.
- Policy Recommendations: Advising on policy actions and reforms to boost infrastructure investment, broadband proliferation, and sector sustainability.
- Health and Safety Standards: Proposing standards to mitigate human exposure to electromagnetic fields, particularly in dense 5G network areas.
Next Steps in the Auction Process
The EOIs were officially opened at the PTA headquarters on July 15, 2024. The selected consultants will soon commence their detailed analysis and advisory roles, focusing on ensuring a transparent and successful auction process. This will include a comprehensive report on spectrum valuation, detailing base prices in both USD and PKR for various frequency bands.
Enhancing Pakistan’s Telecommunications Sector
The consultancy’s work will be instrumental in achieving the government’s objective of enhancing Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services across Pakistan. Their expertise will ensure that the auction process is competitive and aligned with global standards, fostering a robust telecommunications market.
Pakistan’s upcoming 5G spectrum auction is set to be a transformative event for the country’s telecommunications sector. The involvement of leading international consultants underscores the global significance of this auction. By leveraging their expertise, Pakistan aims to ensure a successful and transparent rollout of 5G technology, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and digital empowerment.
The meticulous selection process by the PTA and the strategic execution of the auction with the consultants’ guidance demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to technological advancement and a competitive telecommunications market. As the nation progresses with this ambitious project, it stands to gain improved broadband services and a stronger position in the global digital economy.