Papua New Guinea is ready to issue 5G spectrum licences in the 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands to qualified mobile operators, moving the country closer to commercial 5G deployment while linking new spectrum rights to wider 4G coverage obligations.
The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) said it has completed the legal, technical and regulatory work required for its 5G licensing framework following several years of spectrum planning, market assessments, industry consultation and reviews of international practices.
The next phase will see licensed operators plan and deploy their networks, with NICTA responsible for monitoring compliance with the conditions attached to the spectrum.
2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands opened for 5G
NICTA's framework makes spectrum in the 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands available for mobile network development.
Both bands have been approved for 4G and 5G use, giving operators flexibility in how the spectrum is incorporated into their networks.
The 3.5 GHz band in particular has become an important spectrum range for 5G deployments internationally because it can provide a balance between network capacity and coverage.
NICTA did not disclose in the announcement how much spectrum will be assigned to each operator, licence prices or the detailed allocation mechanism.
5G licences tied to additional 4G coverage
Papua New Guinea is also using the licensing framework to connect 5G investment with wider mobile coverage objectives.
Although initial 5G deployments are expected to focus on major urban centres, NICTA said licences will include rollout requirements intended to ensure that the benefits of additional spectrum are not limited to those areas.
Operators receiving spectrum will be required to extend 4G coverage to 20 new sites identified through the country's Universal Access and Service Program.
The approach effectively links access to higher-capacity spectrum with obligations to improve existing-generation connectivity in areas where extending coverage remains a priority.
Vodafone PNG commits to population coverage targets
Vodafone PNG has already committed to deploying 5G across the National Capital District and at least one additional city within 18 months.
Its longer-term targets include extending 5G to at least 20% of Papua New Guinea's population within 36 months and 30% within 60 months.
These targets suggest the initial rollout will remain concentrated in more densely populated areas before expanding progressively.
The regulator did not provide corresponding 5G rollout commitments for other operators in the announcement.
Digicel PNG completes 5G readiness testing
Digicel PNG is also preparing its network for the transition.
In July, the operator announced that it had completed end-to-end 5G readiness testing, which it said validated its network's ability to support 5G connectivity.
With the regulatory framework now prepared, qualified operators can move from network testing and planning toward licensed commercial deployments.
NICTA will oversee whether operators meet the coverage and other requirements associated with their spectrum licences.
More spectrum and satellite reforms planned
The 5G licensing framework forms part of a wider programme of spectrum reform in Papua New Guinea.
NICTA said future work will address additional high-demand spectrum as well as satellite and non-terrestrial network services.
The regulator also plans to create further opportunities for licence-exempt spectrum and Wi-Fi services.
This broader approach could be particularly relevant in Papua New Guinea, where expanding connectivity across geographically challenging and sparsely populated areas can require a combination of terrestrial mobile, satellite and other wireless technologies.
Source: MEA Tech Watch Press Reporter
