06 May 2025

Peru has initiated the allocation process for the 3.5GHz frequency band designated for public telecommunications services utilizing 5G or higher technology. Specifically, the call encompasses frequencies within the 3300-3800MHz band.

The country’s Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) will be offering these frequencies directly to telecommunications operators, providing blocks of 25MHz. Each operator or group is limited to acquiring a maximum of four blocks.

The allocation process is unique; while each 100MHz package is valued at approximately $127 million, the price alone will not determine the award recipients. Instead, the MTC will evaluate allocations based on mandatory investment commitments from the participants. These commitments are expected to focus on enhancing connectivity, including the rollout of 4G services along road corridors, as well as in regions currently lacking mobile connectivity or limited to 2G or 3G coverage.

Further requirements for applicants will include ensuring outdoor coverage in sports facilities, educational institutions, and healthcare centres. The exact criteria for what constitutes a successful submission remains unclear, but it appears that points will be awarded based on the additional commitments proposed by participants.

Interested companies must submit expressions of interest to the communications programs and projects authority (DGPPC) between 7 May and 3 June. The qualification phase will take place from 25 June to 1 July, followed by the submission of envelopes containing additional deployment commitments. The results of the allocation process are anticipated to be announced on 11 August.

It is noteworthy that part of the frequency band, specifically between 3400 and 3600MHz, is already allocated to operators such as Entel, Telefónica, Americatel, and América Móvil for local carrier services, personal communications, and fixed telephony. Additionally, in the 3600-3800MHz frequency range, four private and public operators currently utilizing fixed satellite services will transition to the Ku or extended Ku band.