radio spectrum regulation

Mexico's Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT) submitted to public consultation draft rules for an upcoming spectrum auction. This auction would grant 10-year concessions in the 2300–2400 MHz band specifically for private industrial “intelligent wireless communications”. The spectrum is intended to support industry 4.0 applications, which would enable the operation of smart factories interconnected through technologies like the internet of things (IoT). The consultation started on 17 June and concluded on 16 July 2026. The proposal refers to CRT accepting bids starting on 19 November 2026.

Conatel, the Venezuelan spectrum regulator, temporarily authorised direct-to-device emergency messaging following the La Guaira earthquakes, allowing compatible mobile phones to connect directly to Starlink satellites where terrestrial networks are unavailable.

On the occasion of Cullen International’s 40th anniversary conference in Brussels on 23 June 2026, representatives from authorities of Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, the EU, and Japan discussed how competition policy in communications and digital markets can support innovation and consumer welfare. The panel addressed the theme from different angles, from merger control to the interplay between ex ante and ex post frameworks to address competition concerns in digital sectors.

On the occasion of its 40th anniversary conference in Brussels on 23 June 2026, Cullen International hosted a panel discussion on the EU AI Act, addressing topics such as the role of standards and secondary legislation to help implement this regulation.

Out of 21 European countries analysed, five have already established licensing schemes for the 3.8–4.2 GHz band and another six countries plan to offer licences. Several countries offer local licences in the 26 GHz, 3.4–3.8 GHz and 2.3 GHz bands.

Panama's telecoms regulator, ASEP, launched a public tender to award a concession to a third national mobile operator. Panama’s mobile market has been comprised of two mobile network operators following Digicel's definitive exit in 2024. However, Panamanian law requires at least three. The concession on offer has a 20-year term and provides spectrum in four bands. The aim is to complete the tender in December 2026 to have the new operator begin commercial operations in 3Q 2027.