Belgian regulator unveils proposed legislation to auction 5G spectrum

Belgian telecom regulator BIPT has published the full text of proposed legislation to auction new mobile frequencies with the aim of attracting a fourth mobile operator. The documents include a requirement for existing operators to offer national roaming to a newcomer. Current operators include Proximus, Orange Belgium and Telenet’s BASE. The proposals remain subject to feedback from advisory bodies before becoming final. The Belgian government aims to award 5G spectrum in late 2019. The government expects to award mobile spectrum in the 700 MHz, 1400 MHz and 3600 MHz bands. The authorities also confirmed that the auction process will include the renewals of all existing licenses that are due to expire in March 2021, namely concessions in the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2600 MHz bands. The frequencies are expected to be awarded for 20 years. The possible entry of a fourth operator will allow for lower prices, more innovation and a faster roll out of 5G, the Belgian ministry for telecoms and the digital agenda previously said. “Today, Belgium scores particularly low in the use of mobile data. At the same time, prices for mobile data are a lot higher than in other countries. By creating room for a new, fourth network, we provide additional investment, stronger price competition and lower prices for consumers,” said Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Telecoms Alexander De Croo. “It’s now or never for a fourth player in the Belgian mobile market. I am convinced that there is certainly interest … to invest in rolling out a new 5G network in our country. That would be a good thing. We would be one of the first countries in Europe with a full 5G network at affordable prices,” De Croo added.