Paraguay CONATEL Mobile Broadband Consultation 2026 Opens for Key Spectrum Bands

The Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones (CONATEL), Paraguay’s national telecommunications regulator, has initiated a public consultation as of April 14, 2026, concerning the draft terms and conditions for a forthcoming spectrum licensing tender. This process is aimed at enabling the provision of mobile broadband services and strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure.

Paraguay CONATEL Mobile Broadband Consultation 2026: Regulatory Scope and Objectives

The consultation seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for granting licenses to operators intending to provide:

• Cellular mobile telephony services

• Broadband internet access

• Data transmission services

  
  

The proposed licensing process will cover operations within the following frequency bands:

• 2,300 MHz (2.3 GHz)

• 3,500 MHz (3.5 GHz)

  
  

These bands are internationally recognized as critical for enhancing both 4G capacity and 5G network deployment.

Strategic Importance of the 2.3 GHz and 3.5 GHz Bands

The inclusion of these spectrum bands reflects Paraguay’s commitment to aligning with global telecommunications standards:

• The 2.3 GHz band is widely utilized for LTE (4G) services, supporting improved network capacity and user experience, particularly in densely populated areas.

• The 3.5 GHz band is a cornerstone of 5G ecosystems, enabling high data throughput, low latency, and support for emerging technologies such as IoT, smart cities, and industrial automation.

  
  

Key Provisions Under Consultation

The draft document outlines a structured framework encompassing technical, operational, and economic requirements:

Licensing and Allocation Mechanism

• Defined eligibility criteria for participating entities

• Transparent and competitive tender procedures

• Spectrum assignment methodologies

  
  

Technical and Deployment Obligations

• Mandatory network rollout schedules

• Coverage requirements, including underserved and rural areas

• Quality of service (QoS) performance standards

  
  

Operational Commitments

• Investment obligations in infrastructure deployment

• Efficient and effective use of allocated spectrum

• Compliance with national regulatory frameworks

  
  

Economic Conditions

• Spectrum pricing models and associated fees

• Financial guarantees and payment structures

• Ongoing reporting and regulatory compliance obligations

Market and Policy Implications

This consultation represents a pivotal step in Paraguay’s broader strategy to modernize its telecommunications sector. By facilitating access to mid-band spectrum, CONATEL aims to:

• Accelerate nationwide 5G deployment

• Expand access to reliable and high-speed mobile broadband services

• Promote competition and innovation within the telecom market

• Attract both domestic and international investment

  
  

The initiative aligns with global trends in spectrum management and reflects increasing regional momentum toward digital transformation.

Implications for Manufacturers and Technology Providers

For equipment manufacturers and solution providers, this development signals:

• Growing demand for devices compatible with 2.3 GHz and 3.5 GHz frequency bands

• Expansion opportunities within Paraguay’s emerging 5G ecosystem

• The necessity to ensure compliance with local type approval and technical certification requirements

  
  

Certification and Compliance Considerations

The proposed framework is expected to have a direct impact on product certification processes:

• Devices operating within the identified bands will require regulatory approval in Paraguay

• Potential updates to technical standards and testing procedures may be introduced

• Increased emphasis on radiofrequency (RF) performance, interoperability, and spectrum efficiency

  
  

Timeline and Next Steps

• April 14, 2026 – Public consultation launched

• May 15, 2026 – Deadline for submission of comments

• Post-consultation phase – Review of stakeholder feedback and finalization of tender conditions

• Subsequent stage – Launch of spectrum allocation process and licensing awards

  
  

Conclusion

The Paraguay CONATEL mobile broadband consultation 2026 constitutes a significant regulatory milestone, laying the groundwork for the next generation of mobile connectivity in the country. By defining clear rules for spectrum allocation in key frequency bands, CONATEL is positioning Paraguay to advance its digital infrastructure, support 5G deployment, and foster sustainable growth in the telecommunications sector.

Active participation from industry stakeholders will be essential in shaping a balanced and effective regulatory framework that meets both market needs and national development objectives.