Islamabad: Caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Dr. Umar Saif announced launch of 5G services in Pakistan by July-August 2024.

Speaking at Pakistan Mobile Summit, he revealed plans to auction 300MHz spectrum and emphasised need to enhance optic fibre network before 5G launch.

Dr. Umar Saif shared that government aims to promote local mobile industry by granting 3 percent Research and Development allowance to mobile manufacturers, with an increase to 8 percent in coming years.

This initiative aligns with broader strategies to boost technology sector and achieve self-sufficiency in electronic device production within Pakistan. Interim Minister highlighted country’s recent achievements in mobile phone manufacturing, including assembling 9 million phones worth $1.5 billion and exporting 250,000 phones, earning $ 200 million in foreign exchange.

Dr. Umar Saif stressed importance of developing local industry for mobile phone manufacturing to meet domestic demand and explore international markets.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 30 2024

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