Regulation

Four operators win 5G spectrum in Peru

Four operators win 5G spectrum in Peru

Four of Peru’s mobile operators – Bitel, Claro, Entel and Integratel - have obtained spectrum for 5G deployment. A fifth, Americatel, which had prequalified for the bidding process, reportedly did not participate in the auction.

As we reported in April, the call for bids involved frequencies in the 3300-3800MHz band. The auction was points-based – that is, awards were made based on how well the companies did in investment commitments, rather than how much they might be willing to pay for the spectrum itself.

Vietnamese-owned Bitel achieved the highest score with its additional coverage offer and therefore gained priority to choose its location within the band offered. The company selected the 3400–3500MHz block. 

The BNamericas website reports that Bitel, the third-largest operator in the market has boosted its investments and managed to increase its user base from 8.75 million on 31 December 2024, to 10.1 million by the end of June. 

Market leader Claro was second in the auction. It chose the 3500-3600MHz block. Entel was awarded the 3300-3400MHz block and Integratel obtained the 3600-3700MHz block.

The 3700-3800 MHz block apparently received no bids but the hope is that it will be used for private mining and port services.

The investment commitment, defined by Peru’s Ministry of Transport and Communications, includes bringing 4G services to 1,221 rural communities, in addition to deploying infrastructure on 1,699 kilometres of national highways – a reminder of the continuing relevance of 4G for much of the population of Peru.

 



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