radio spectrum regulation

Claro and Novator Partners added frequencies in the 700 MHz band and the 2.5 GHz band. Tigo obtained 2x20 MHz in the 700 MHz band. The Colombian Government said that it raised more than COP 5bn (US$1.54m) but Novator Partners filed a request to waive one of the acquired blocks, due to an “inconsistency”. If the ministry accepts this request, it would have an important impact on the total price raised. Telefonica participated in the auction, but it did not acquire any spectrum in the Colombian multi-band auction arguing the high prices offered by the other bidders during the auction.

The Salvadorian regulator, Siget, awarded to Claro and Tigo 2x45 MHz of spectrum in the AWS band. Siget raised US$ 62.7m during the award.

Uruguay’s regulator, Ursec, raised US$65.4m in the award of 120 MHz of spectrum in the 1800 MHz, AWS and 2.6 GHz bands. Licences have national scope and a 25-year term.

Austrian regulator TKK launched the auction of 270 MHz in three bands and invited operators to submit applications by 26 February 2020. The innovative auction design foresees comprehensive coverage obligations and a bonus stage where the bidders may commit to additional coverage obligations in exchange for a price discount.

Setic published the results of the spectrum plan consultation, including stakeholders’ positions, recommendations per spectrum band and recommendations for a 5G plan. The new Argentinian government would decide on the final plan and the specific timing for the awards.

The Colombian Ministry of Information and Communications Technologies (Mintic) published its 5G plan. The MinTIC also said that the spectrum for the 5G pilots in bands above 3.3 GHz (3.3–3.7 GHz, 24.25–27.5 GHz, 37–43.5 GHz, 45.5–47 GHz and 47.2–48.2 GHz) will be assigned in 1Q 2020, when the pilots will start in some regions of the country. Interested parties have time until 14 January 2020 to participate in the call. In 3Q 2021 the 3.4–3.6 GHz band will be awarded.