Happy Monday! Today, we look at the latest developments involving Brazil’s 5G auction, with potential new permissions for foreign capital. A bill in the Senate would allow politicians to take charge of embassies, without losing their office in parliament.
Regulator to allow foreign capital companies to bid for 5G
Telecoms regulator Anatel’s public procurement committee received six requests against the upcoming auction of 5G frequencies — scheduled for November 4. Five were dismissed, but the agency is leaning in favor of one of them, which challenges restrictions on companies owned by foreign capital.
- The agency has already positioned itself against a 1998 decree restricting the market to service operators whose majority-owners are Brazilian companies and individuals.
Why it matters. For Anatel, the restriction is anachronistic and reduces the potential for investment in the country.
Bids. On Wednesday, Anatel’s special 5G procurement committee will receive documents from companies willing to bid for frequency bands. Companies must turn in proof of tax clearance, price maintenance guarantees, and their proposals.
Politics won’t disrupt 5G. According to sector associations, political and fiscal crises revolving around the government will not scare telecom companies away from the 5G auction. Some analysts expect the sale to...