Sri Lanka has achieved a key milestone in its digital transformation with the official awarding of 5G spectrum licenses at a ceremonial event organized by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL), under the patronage of the Ministry of Digital Economy.
The introduction of 5G technology is seen as a vital step toward realizing Sri Lanka’s digital economy vision. With its high speed, ultra-low latency, and enhanced reliability, 5G will enable transformative applications across sectors such as industry, healthcare, education, logistics, smart cities, and public services. The technology is expected to foster new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the country.
In addition to improved connectivity, 5G serves as a foundation for digital economic growth by enabling advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), automation, cloud computing, and data-driven services. The network’s capability to support real-time communication, large-scale device connectivity, and high-capacity data transmission is anticipated to increase productivity, enhance service delivery, attract digital investment, and strengthen Sri Lanka’s national competitiveness.
Furthermore, 5G will facilitate the development of future-ready industries, promote digital inclusion, and better position Sri Lanka to participate in the global digital economy. This aligns with the nation’s ambition to build a USD 15 billion digital economy by 2030.
The licenses mark the commencement of official 5G deployment in Sri Lanka. Dialog Axiata PLC and Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel formally received their spectrum licenses, reaffirming their roles in advancing the country’s next-generation mobile network infrastructure.
Under the spectrum assignment, frequencies were allocated across two critical bands. In the 3500 MHz band, 100 MHz within the 3400–3500 MHz range was assigned to Dialog Axiata PLC, and 100 MHz within the 3500–3600 MHz range was assigned to Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel. Additionally, in the 27 GHz band, 200 MHz between 27,200–27,400 MHz was awarded to Dialog Axiata PLC to support high-capacity 5G deployments.
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, Eng. Eranga Weeraratne; TRCSL Director General, Retired Air Vice Marshal Bandula Herath; Mr. Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Chairman of TRCSL; Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena, Chairman of the Auction Committee; Mr. Supun Weerasinghe, Director and Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC; Dr. Mothilal de Silva, Chairman and Director of Mobitel (Private) Limited; along with other senior officials and key stakeholders from the telecommunications sector.
