Mexican regulator begins spectrum bidding process

Mexican telecom regulator IFT will put out to tender 6,158 spectrum blocks for wireless access services.

The tender, currently in the public consultation process, will make portions of spectrum in the 600MHz, L-band, AWS, PCS, 2.5GHz and 800MHz bands available to operators. Concessions will be granted for 20 years.

Some of the bands could be used for 5G networks.

Last year, IFT said it had about 330MHz of spectrum available for bidding.

However, the value of the spectrum may be an impediment to the success of the bidding process. In previous processes, some blocks were abandoned due to the excessive price of the frequencies.

The current public consultation does not include the minimum reference value or the coverage commitments that operators must comply with.

The initial calendar foresees a first stage of expressions of interest for this September, followed by the stage of evaluation and issuance of certificates of participation no later than March 2025. The presentation of offers is due to take place from May 5 next year. Bnamericas