The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially issued 5G licenses to major telecom operators, signaling the formal start of commercial 5G services in the country as of March 19, 2026. This milestone is accompanied by significant updates to the regulatory framework that manufacturers must adhere to for device compliance.
Key Highlights for Manufacturers
1. NGMS/5G Frequency Whitelisting
All new wireless devices intended for the Pakistan market must now be compatible with locally designated Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) frequency bands. The PTA has updated the device whitelist to strictly include only hardware that supports these specific bands, ensuring optimal network performance and reducing interference.
2. Revised Framework for SRDs and IoT
The PTA released Version 1.4 of its regulatory framework for Short Range Devices (SRDs) and Terrestrial IoT. Manufacturers of IoT modules and smart devices should review their technical specifications against these revised standards to ensure continued market access.
3. RFID Band Designation
The 920-925 MHz band has been specifically designated for RFID technology. Devices aligned with European or other regional standards (which often use different bands) may require hardware or software adjustments to comply with Pakistan's National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP).
HertzWeg Insight:
"The 5G rollout in Pakistan is a game-changer, but it brings stricter whitelisting protocols. We recommend manufacturers verify their RF test reports against the new NGMS frequency bands immediately to avoid customs delays."
For expert assistance with PTA Type Approval and navigating these new 5G requirements, contact the HertzWeg compliance team.