NTA Advances Plan to Allocate Additional Spectrum for 5G Expansion

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has advanced preparations to allocate additional frequency for the expansion of 5G services in Nepal, while allowing service providers to deploy the technology using their existing spectrum. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, NTA spokesperson Min Prasad Aryal said the authority follows a technology-neutral policy, under which telecom operators can introduce 5G using the spectrum they currently hold. He said operators should select appropriate technology based on their business requirements, technological efficiency, and international practices. Aryal said that although Nepal’s 5G expansion has been delayed compared with many other countries, the regulatory preparations required for additional spectrum allocation have been completed and the process is now being advanced. NTA Deputy Director Pradip Poudyal said the authority is working to create a favorable environment for operators to expand 5G services. According to him, the process of allocating the 800 MHz band to existing service providers has been moved forward, while 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands have been prioritized for the next phase. Poudyal also noted that telecom operators have raised concerns over the high investment required for 5G expansion and uncertainty surrounding returns and business prospects. He said similar challenges have been observed in countries with economies comparable to Nepal’s. He added that some countries have facilitated 5G investment by waiving frequency fees or providing government support. In Nepal, the government and the authority could consider similar facilitation measures if operators submit concrete business plans outlining their requirements. The NTA said its role includes allocating spectrum, facilitating equipment imports, and recommending policy support to the government. If operators submit concrete plans for 5G expansion, the authority is prepared to reallocate spectrum in accordance with existing regulations. 5G has also been identified as a priority under the Digital Nepal Framework, and the authority said it remains actively engaged in spectrum allocation and policy facilitation, with further developments expected in the near future.