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Mexico: Cofetel approves free spectrum for wireless internet Print E-mail
Wednesday, 10 August 2005
Cofetel, Mexico's telecommunications regulator, approved the use of some radio spectrum bands without requiring a license.

This ruling is intended to increase the penetration of wireless broadband internet. The resolution refers to Wi-Fi and WiMax technologies. So far, it has been possible to use these wireless technologies only within enclosed spaces such as cafes and airports.

"This measure will benefit the whole industry as it will increase the offer of technologies in the market and eventually increase the penetration of broadband services," said Ramiro Tovar, from Mexico's Autonomous Technical Institute (ITAM).

The federal regulatory improvement commission (Cofemer) now has twenty days to approve the regulations before they are passed on to the transport and communications ministry (SCT) for publication in the official gazette.

The regulations should prove to be good for the industry and for the future of WiMax because they give legal certainty for private investors in wireless communications in non-licensed bands, Sergio Legorreta, a lawyer with Baker & McKenzie said. Until now, the government has had the power to requisition equipment being used in non-licensed frequency bands according to Legorreta. As a result, wireless broadband has so far seen limited expansion.

However, the new regulations are likely to encourage investors to invest on a larger scale in WiMax. In particular they should inspire confidence for equipment manufacturers and for new entrants.

The average penetration of broadband for the OECD member countries is 10%. Mexico has one of the lowest broadband penetration levels among these countries, at 0.8%.

The new frequency bands designated for open use are 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.150-5.250 GHz and 5.250-5.350 GHz. The 5.725-5.850 GHz frequencies are for a combination of free and restricted use.

Source: Business News Americas - WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News