Latin America. The 5G Americas Radio Spectrum Index estimates that, at the end of 2018, the average spectrum allocated for mobile services in Latin America stood at 370 MHz. This level is higher than in December 2017 and reflects the contribution of new spectrum allocations and authorisations in favour of telecommunications operators.
This index is compiled based on information from regulators and operators to provide an estimate of the radio spectrum resources available to the wireless telecommunications industry in the region.
At the end of 2017, the index estimated that the average spectrum allocated for mobile services was 353.8 MHz per country, so the figure of 370 MHz in December 2018 represents an increase of almost 16 MHz (4.6 percent more). The increase in the level of spectrum allocated is positive, but remains below international parameters, such as the suggestions of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Specifically, the figure of 370 MHz is equivalent to 28.5 and 18.9 percent of what itU suggests for 2015 and 2020, respectively.
In 2018, spectrum tenders were registered in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Paraguay and El Salvador that licensed blocks of the 700 MHz, 1.7/2.1 GHz (also known as AWS) and 2.5 GHz bands. In addition, a spectrum allocation took place in Panama and in the Dominican Republic the use and transfer of a portion of the 2.5 GHz band was authorized.
The survey also identified dynamics that can reduce or limit the amount of spectrum for mobile services, such as spectrum devolution obligations and accumulation caps. In addition, there are countries that have not exhausted the spectrum of bands such as 700 MHz, 1.9 GHz, AWS and 2.5 GHz that already have a developed technological ecosystem and that must be allocated to promote the development of mobile broadband technologies, particularly Long Term Evolution (LTE).
5G Americas recommends that spectrum allocation processes should not be discriminatory for operators already present in the market. Practices such as blocks reserved for new entrants or very restrictive spectrum caps can discourage participation in spectrum competitions and hinder the development of new networks.
For 2019 it is necessary that the announcements of more national administrations that promise new allocations materialize in schedules or specifications. The new spectrum must always be delivered in conditions of being used without interference, so the cleaning and reorganization of the bands must be an axis of the spectrum plans.
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