Ecuador, Uruguay close to signing spectrum renewals with operators

Ecuador expects to bring in US$100mn while Uruguay is aiming for US$54mn from upcoming radio spectrum renewals, according to press reports.

The Ecuadoran government began renewal negotiations last year for concessions held by operators Movistar and Claro. The contracts are for portions of spectrum in the 850MHz and 1900MHz bands, according to GSMA, and expire in 2023. 

According to local daily El Universo, the US$101mn figure is part of the 2023 budget and the new contracts will include obligations related to improving connectivity and reducing the country's digital divide, 

Uruguay's spectrum renewal decision for Claro, Movistar and state-owned Antel is expected this week and the government is looking to bring in US$54mn, according Argentine business daily Ámbito Financiero.

The renewals correspond to Movistar’s 1800/1900MHz blocks, which expire in December, and spectrum portions of Claro and Antel that expire in 2023.

One of Claro's spectrum concessions ends in In June next year, while the 1700/1800MHz frequency concession of Antel expires a month later.