11th Latin America Spectrum Management Conference

Event Overview

The 11th Latin America Spectrum Management Conference took place on 22 -23 September, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in Merida, Mexico. The conference was kindly hosted by IFT México, and held alongside the CITEL PCC.II meeting.

Across 2 days attendees had the opportunity to be involved in important discussions on the key spectrum topics for the Latin America region and beyond, through interactive sessions, networking opportunities, an exhibition area and much more..

The conference is part of The Global Spectrum Series the world’s largest collection of regional spectrum policy conferences.

  • Global Spectrum Series

    This event takes place as part of the Global Spectrum Series - the world’s largest collection of regional spectrum policy conferences.
  • 2023 Event

    Highlights from the event in Brasília in February 2024

Key Themes

Hover over the images to find out more…

  • The emerging shape of the post-WRC23 landscape

    – Next steps and the path towards WRC27
  • The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band

    – What is the right choice for Latin America?
  • 3.5GHz Auctions & Awards

    – Progress & Strategies in bringing this key 5G spectrum to market
  • Frameworks for licensing and deploying satellite services in Latin American countries

    - Is there a need for a rethink?
  • Direct-to-device connectivity

    - maximising the potential
  • A Spectrum Roadmap for 6G

    - Key bands and approaches
  • Balancing the requirements of all users in the sub-1GHz frequencies

    - Broadcast Migration and the future of the UHF bands
  • Closing the digital divide in Latin America

    - Working towards providing affordable connectivity in remote areas
  • Meeting the requirements for vertical connectivity

    - Options and approaches

Catch up on the highlights from the previous conference

Event Photos

Watch below the key takeaways from speakers and participants at the 11th Latin America Spectrum Management Conference:

Useful Information

Hyatt Regency Merida
Av. Colón 344, Zona Paseo Montejo,
Centro, 97000 Mérida,
Yuc., Mexico

IFT have kindly secured preferential accommodation rates at the conference hotel. To access these rates, please click the below button.

For practical information on travelling to and staying in Merida, Mexico, including entry requirements, reduced accommodation rates and more, please download the below documents, kindly put together by IFT Mexico. 

Where will the conference take place?

The conference will take place in Merida, Mexico at the Hyatt Regency. Please view the ‘Venue’ tab for more information.

This conference is free to attend for all organisation types. Registration is available in English and in Spanish.

There will be simultaneous translation in English and Spanish for the conference sessions.

This will take place as a fully in-person event in Merida, Mexico. We hope you can join us!

You can find more information on the Global Spectrum Series here.

Organisers & Partners

Organised by

Hosted by

Supported by

Platinum Partners

GSA
LLA
Viasat
OneWeb
Huawei

Gold Partners

Silver Partners

Networking Partners

Knowledge Partners

Aetha

In Partnership With

Conectadas

Refreshment Hosts

In Partnership With

Speakers Included

Javier Juárez Mojica

Javier Juárez Mojica

Acting Chairman
IFT Mexico

Mario Maniewicz

Director, BR
ITU

Oscar Leon

Executive Secretary
CITEL

Javier Juaréz Mojica

Acting Chairman, IFT Mexico

Oscar Leon

Executive Secretary
CITEL

Philippe Aubineau

Philippe Aubineau

Counsellor for ITU-R Study Groups, Radiocommunication Bureau
ITU

Sergio Sotomayor

Director General, ANE Colombia

Lizania Margarita Pérez Rodríguez

Executive Secretary, Comisión Técnica Regional de Telecomunicaciones
COMTELCA

Esteban Gonzalez

Esteban Gonzalez

Head of Spectrum Unit
SUTEL Costa Rica

Maria Myers-Hamilton

Managing Director
Spectrum Management Authority (SMA), Jamaica

Alejandro Navarrete

Alejandro Navarrete Torres

Head, Radio Spectrum Unit
IFT Mexico

Shari Scott

Senior Director, Space Services and International
ISED Canada

Cristiana Camarate

Commissioner
ANATEL Brazil

Natalia Vicente

Natalia Vicente

Vice President of Public Affairs
GSOA

Jose Arias

Head of Global Policy and Regulatory Affairs
Nokia

Luciana Camargos

Luciana Camargos

Head of Spectrum
GSMA

Jose Ayala

Global Policy Advocacy Director for Latin America
Ericsson

Cristiane Corrêa

Counsel Leader
ABRINT

Sergio Marquez

Director, Regulatory Affairs
EchoStar Corporation

Hector Marin

Senior Director, Government Affairs
Qualcomm

Ryan Johnson

Senior Director, Global Market Access, & Government Affairs Lead for Latin America
Viasat

Daniela Rivera

Daniela Rivera

Digital Policy Manager
Amazon

Hazem Moakkit

Hazem Moakkit

Vice President, Spectrum Strategy
Intelsat

Mario Maniewicz

Director, BR
ITU

Marcelo Rute

Head of Telecommunications Development Fund
SUBTEL Chile

Maria
Myers-Hamilton

Managing Director
Spectrum Management Authority of Jamaica

Alberto Delgado

Radio Spectrum Director
INDOTEL Dominican Republic

Neşe Guendelsberger

Deputy Chief, Office International Affairs
FCC

Cristiana Camarate

Superintendent, Consumer Relations
ANATEL Brazil

Wilmer Azurza

Coordinator of Networks & Radio Spectrum Management
MTC Peru

Martha Suarez

President
DSA

Carlos Riopedre

COO & Managing Director
Sateliot

Cesar Funes

Vice President, Latin America Public Affairs
Huawei

Milene Pereira

Senior Manager, Government Affairs
Qualcomm

Jose Ayala

Global Policy Advocacy Director for Latin America
Ericsson

Mindel De La Torre

Chief Regulatory, International Strategy
Omnispace

Kalpak Gude

Head of Domestic Regulatory Affairs, Project Kuiper
Amazon

Michelle Caldeira

Senior Legal & Regulatory Counsel
SES

Carolina Limbatto

Head of Americas
Cullen International

Luciana Camargos

Luciana Camargos

Head of Spectrum
GSMA

José Arias

Head of Global Policy & Regulatory Affairs
Nokia

Agenda

You can view the agenda in your preferred time zone by selecting it from the list below.
Day 1
2024-09-22
Day 2
2024-09-23
09:00 - 09:50
Session 1: Keynote Presentations
Session 1: Keynote Presentations image
Moderator: Paola Herrera
Senior Analyst Americas, Cullen International
Welcome from the Conference Host / Keynote Presentation
Welcome from the Conference Host / Keynote Presentation image
Javier Juaréz Mojica
Acting Chairman, IFT Mexico
Keynote Presentation
Keynote Presentation image
Oscar León
Executive Secretary, CITEL
Keynote Presentation
Keynote Presentation image
Philippe Aubineau
Counsellor for ITU-R Study Groups, Radiocommunication Bureau, ITU
Welcome from the Conference Host / Keynote Presentation
Welcome from the Conference Host / Keynote Presentation image
Arturo Robles Rovalo
Commissioner, IFT Mexico & CCP.II Chair
09:50 - 10:50
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27

Nine months on from WRC-23, work has begun in earnest in analysing the outcomes and the impact of the decisions that were taken; and on identifying and implementing the next steps for the region as the next cycle and the journey towards WRC-27 already begins. With the first post-WRC PCC.II meeting being held in Montevideo in April this year and a second meeting set to take place immediately following the conclusion of this conference, this session will provide an opportunity to look at the positions that are emerging and the significant topics that will likely dominate discussions over the next 4 years. Additionally, the session will explore the different priorities of industry players as we move towards WRC-27, and more broadly on the best way forward to ensure the continued drive in the region towards a regulatory framework to enable the value of spectrum to be realized.
 

  • WRC-23 saw some quite divergent views across the Americas and CITEL region in some of the key agenda items. Did this have any effect on the overall success of the region at the conference, and are there any lessons that can be taken to promote alignment and coherence across member countries in the future?
  • Following the first PCC.II meeting where the post WRC-23 agenda and the path towards WRC-27 were defined, what now are likely to be the key points at the PCC.II meeting this coming week and more broadly over the next 4 years?
  • What are the main agenda items up for discussion at WRC-27 and what timeline or framework for studies in these areas can be expected?
  • To what extent are regional and national positions emerging (or potentially shifting) in the post-WRC environment? In which areas and agenda items are we seeing movement towards a regional consensus, and in which areas are positions less aligned?
  • WRC-27 was expected to be vital in laying the foundations for 6G rollout. With satellite issues arguably overshadowing IMT when it comes to the balance and focus of agenda items, however, to what extent will this still be the case?
  • Which agenda items are set to influence the most in defining the future connectivity landscape for different connectivity providers (IMT, satellite, unlicensed users, military and more)?
  • Are trends being seen towards either increased or decreased coordination and harmonization of spectrum policies across Region 2? How can regulators and policymakers continue to balance the need to consider the diverse spectrum needs and priorities of their own country, whilst also considering how this could affect the path towards WRC-27 and the overall influence of the region at the conference itself?
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27 image
Moderator: Ramiro Camacho Castillo
Commissioner, IFT Mexico
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27 image
Ricardo Martinez
Chairman, WRC-WG, Inter-American Telecommunication Commission (CITEL)
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27 image
Jose Ayala
Chairman, Spectrum Group for CITEL Region - Americas, GSA
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27 image
Natalia Vicente
Vice President of Public Affairs, GSOA
Session 2: The emerging shape of the post WRC-23 landscape – Next steps and the path towards WRC-27 image
Adriana Servin Villada
Director of Government Affairs for Mexico, Central America & Caribbean, Cisco
10:50 - 11:15
Refreshment Break
11:15 - 12:30
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America?

WRC-23 highlighted the very different opinions that remain across the Americas region when it comes to the best solution for the long-term future of the 6GHz band. The US and Canada have taken a path towards an unlicensed allocation across the entire band, contrasting with many countries across Latin America who are leaving options open to possibly explore a licensed regime in the upper part of the band (a footnote was signed up to by Brazil and Mexico which identified the band for IMT, whilst also recognizing the use of the band by WAS/RLANs). Against this backdrop, this session will analyze the current landscape in the allocation of the 6GHz band, especially for the upper part of the band and explore emerging positions across countries regarding its use. It will also look at the technical and regulatory factors that could play a part in the decision-making process for countries as they look to decide the best way forward for the future use of the band and discuss whether a ‘win-win’ approach that meets the connectivity needs of all different stakeholders can still be a possibility.
 

  • What is the current situation across Latin America and wider Americas regarding the 6GHz band?
  • Which were the main decisions taken in WRC-23 regarding the band, and how will they impact the future allocation of the band in Region 2?
  • What were the circumstances that led to the inclusion of the footnotes in the WRC-23 outcomes, and what can now be expected to be the next steps?
  • What regulatory frameworks and technical standards need to be established to ensure an interference-free and efficient integration of WiFi and IMT services?
  • Is adopting a regional harmonized approach to the 6 GHz band still viable for Latin America, and what potential benefits could such an approach offer?
  • To what extent should countries be considering their decision about the use of the upper-6GHz band based on taking advantages of the economies of scale at wider regional or global level?
  • How quickly could it be expected that spectrum in the 6GHz band can be made available and ultimately awarded in countries across the region? What impact can this have on the implementation of different services (licensed or unlicensed)?
  • What is holding up those Latin American countries that have not made any decision regarding the use of the lower and the upper portion of the band and what future timeframe can be expected?
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Moderator: Razvan Todoran
Manager, Aetha Consulting
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Agostinho Linhares
Executive Director, Research Institute for Digital Economy - IPE Digital
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Rafael Sanchez
Manager, Radio Electric Spectrum Department, INDOTEL, Dominican Republic
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Daniela Rivera
Digital Policy Manager, Amazon
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
José Arias
Head of Global Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Nokia
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Luciana Camargos
Head of Spectrum, GSMA
Session 3: The long-term future of the upper 6GHz band – what is the right choice for Latin America? image
Cristiane Corrêa
Counsel Leader, ABRINT
12:30 - 13:25
Lunch
13:25 - 14:40
Session 4: 3.5GHz Auctions & Awards – Progress & Strategies in bringing this key 5G spectrum to market

Around the world, the 3.5GHz has been critical as the pioneer band for the initial rollout of 5G services. For those countries still working to launch 5G, ensuring that the spectrum in this key frequency band is brought to market as quickly as possible should be seen as a primary priority. Against this backdrop, this session will look at the current situation regarding the award of 3.5GHz spectrum across the Latin America region. It will look at recent auctions and assignments that have taken place across the region, the different mechanisms and models that have been used, and the results that have been seen. It will look at the progress that is being made in those countries still planning for their 3.5GHz awards, and the role that the band plays more broadly in national broadband plans across the region. It will discuss anticipated future auctions, harmonization efforts within the ITU framework, and the crucial aspect of maximizing the spectrum’s potential while balancing various services.
 

  • How key is the 3.5GHz spectrum as a part of national and regional broadband plans and strategies for accelerating 5G deployment across the region?
  • What progress has been made when it comes to awarding spectrum in the band for 5G services and in actually making it available and rolling out services?
  • What different award mechanisms and licencing approaches have been used to date and, how has this affected the success of 5G rollouts and the overall efficiency of this key spectrum?
  • What measures are regulators and operators taking to ensure efficient utilization of this band and maximize its capacity for delivering high-speed, low-latency 5G services?
  • What new spectrum awards and auctions are expected in the near future involving the 3.5GHz band? What are the different approaches seen in future award process that have been announced or those which are ongoing (e.g. Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica and Peru)?
  • What lessons can these countries and others still planning awards take from experiences and awards to date?
  • To what extent would regulators in the region be inclined to implement less profitable auctions and balance the need for achieving policy goals, increasing network roll-out and raising revenue, especially for 5G services?
  • To what extent are Latin American countries participating in international harmonization efforts for this band, particularly within the ITU framework? How can regional cooperation and coordination contribute to maximizing the benefits of the C-band spectrum for 5G and beyond?
  • To what extent is the C-band spectrum now being used to its full potential across Latin America in terms of 5G deployment and the balance of this with other key services? What challenges still need to be overcome?
  • What mechanisms are in place or being considered to coordinate 5G with other services in the band such as fixed wireless access and satellite communications?
Session 4: 3.5GHz Auctions & Awards – Progress & Strategies in bringing this key 5G spectrum to market image
Moderator: Shreyas Ravi
Director, Secretariat
Introductory Remarks
Introductory Remarks image
Shreyas Ravi
Director, Secretariat
Panel Discussion
Panel Discussion image
Cristiana Camarate
Commissioner, ANATEL Brazil
Panel Discussion image
Sergio Sotomayor
Director General, ANE Colombia
Panel Discussion image
Hector Huici
Expert, Former Undersecretary of Communications and Connectivity, Argentina
Panel Discussion image
Esteban Gonzalez
Head of Spectrum Unit, SUTEL Costa Rica
Panel Discussion image
Jose Gutierrez Salazar
Senior Director, Legal & Regulatory, Liberty Latin America
14:40 - 15:25
Session 5: Case Study Session: Spectrum Awards and Pricing in Mexico – Challenges and Solutions to ensure the success of the upcoming 5G Auction

Regulators across Latin America are faced with the constant challenge of finding the best way to bring spectrum to market whilst designing fair and competitive award processes for both spectrum acquisitions and license renewals. Pricing is a particular challenge – if prices are set too high then it can have an impact on the level of investment and rollout speed of networks, or even deter bidders completely and mean that spectrum remains unsold. One example of an upcoming auction in which concerns have been raised of high spectrum fees potentially deterring operator interest is the ‘IFT-12’ Auction of 5G spectrum in Mexico. This case study session will hear from a number of the key players involved and discuss the specific circumstances and challenges that are faced in Mexico when it comes to ensuring a fair and clear pricing strategy, and the ways in which these can be overcome to ensure a successful conclusion of the auction.
 

  • What are the specific challenges that are seen in Mexico when it comes to designing fair and competitive awards processes and pricing strategies?
  • What solutions are being explored to overcome these and how could the upcoming 5G auction in the country potentially be impacted if a solution is not found?
  • Where does the balance lie between the need for revenue generation, the aim of increasing competition and the desire to foster innovation while awarding spectrum?
  • To what degree is a reform of existing policies and procedures in licensing, allocation, assignment and pricing of spectrum needed both in Mexico and more broadly across the region to reflect the evolution of technologies and ensure successful awards that help to drive forward innovation and investment in networks?
Session 5: Case Study Session: Spectrum Awards and Pricing in Mexico – Challenges and Solutions to ensure the success of the upcoming 5G Auction image
Moderator: Benjamin Tello
Analyst, NERA Economic Consulting
Presentation
Presentation image
Alejandro Navarrete
Head of the Spectrum Unit, IFT Mexico
Presentation
Presentation image
Gabriel Székely
Director General, ANATEL Mexico
Presentation
Presentation image
Stefan Zehle
Chairman & CEO, Coleago Consulting
Q&A with speakers
Q&A with speakers image
Alejandro Navarrete
Head of the Spectrum Unit, IFT Mexico
Q&A with speakers image
Gabriel Székely
Director General, ANATEL Mexico
Q&A with speakers image
Stefan Zehle
Chairman & CEO, Coleago Consulting
15:25 - 15:50
Refreshment Break
15:50 - 16:55
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink?

Satellites have played a crucial role in providing connectivity, particularly in remote areas like Latin America with diverse geographical terrain and uneven telecommunications infrastructure. In recent years, Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) constellations have been transforming satellite communications, posing new opportunities, but also new challenges for policymakers and regulators at national, regional, and global levels. These challenges include ensuring environments free of harmful interference for network operations, adapting to emerging business models, and delivering more flexible spectrum licensing regimes designed for the fast-moving environment that we see today. Against this backdrop, this session will explore the existing licencing and spectrum allocation framework for satellites, and look at the extent to which changes are needed to keep up with the evolution of the sector that is being seen; to ensure the promotion of efficiency and innovation; and to foster access to connectivity for satellites of all kinds. It will assess the balance between spectrum access and scarcity, the efficacy of blanket and streamlined licensing, and the potential impact on vital sectors like disaster relief, healthcare, and education. Moreover, it will examine the role of international best practices in fostering a harmonized regulatory approach among Latin American regulators.
 

  • What are the existing licensing frameworks and regulatory mechanisms for awarding spectrum to satellite services in Latin American countries? How do these frameworks facilitate the deployment and operation of satellite networks, including considerations for frequency coordination and interference mitigation?
  • What specific licencing challenges are arising from NGSO constellations? How can it be ensured that a regulatory framework is in place that promotes competition while protecting existing users?
  • What are the responsibilities of ITU and national regulators when it comes to ensuring compliance with laws around power limits and avoiding interference?
  • What mechanisms are available to ensure that first movers don’t block future entrants from accessing the market? Is a first-come-first-served approach still appropriate?
  • How can regulators more broadly balance the need for spectrum access with spectrum scarcity and increasing demand for satellite-based services?
  • What are the benefits and challenges of blanket licensing, and how does it streamline the licensing process for satellite operators while ensuring efficient spectrum utilization? Are countries already applying this regime? What have been the outcomes?
  • With the emergence of new satellite technologies (i.e. ESIMS), how are regulatory authorities adapting their spectrum management approaches to accommodate these innovations?
  • Are there actions that can be taken to streamline the licencing process for ESIMS and to what extent can there be more coordination on a regional level?
  • Should regulators remove the need for service licensing and embrace “registration” to reduce costs to end users? Could a streamlined licensing of satellite earth stations, as done in Europe and the US be a replicable model in Latin America?
  • Should future licencing frameworks consider GSO and NGSO spectrum use separately and have separate frameworks accordingly, or should they be considered as one single technology group?
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Moderator: Elizabeth Sosa Hernandez
Chair of the PCC.II Working Group on Satellite Systems and Scientific Services, IFT Mexico
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Rodrigo Cruz Gebrim
Head of Spectrum, Orbit and Broadcasting Division, ANATEL
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Shari Scott
Senior Director, Space Services and International, ISED Canada
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Ryan Johnson
Senior Director, Global Market Access, & Government Affairs Lead for Latin America, Viasat
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Zachary Blackburn
Lead, Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Amazon Project Kuiper
Session 6: Spectrum allocation and licensing frameworks for satellites – Is there a need for a rethink? image
Amy Mehlman
Vice President of Global Affairs and Stakeholder Relations, E-Space
16:55 - 18:00
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models?

With the advent of next-generation technologies like Direct to Device (D2D), Hybrid Indoor Broadband Systems (HIBS), High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), and the looming transition to 6G standards, the role of regulation in spectrum management becomes increasingly crucial. More than focusing only on “direct to handset” connections; we are now in front of a “direct to device” communication which includes IoT services demanding robust regulatory frameworks to ensure efficient spectrum utilization, mitigate interference, and foster innovation. In this session, we will examine the different approaches that are being proposed to meet the connectivity requirements of D2D and other emerging new technologies. We will assess different connectivity models that are being put forward and look at the different bands that are being considered to deliver the required connectivity.
 

  • What are the key challenges that the emergence of innovative new technologies and systems such as direct-to-device connectivity pose for spectrum managers?
  • What work is taking place around the world to explore the adaptation of existing regulatory frameworks and systems to take these into account, and who is taking the lead?
  • What different bands and access models are being considered for D2D? Is coordination of spectrum bands possible at a regional level? And globally?
  • What work has begun on defining system characteristics of services and sharing conditions with incumbent services?
  • Is the “first-come-first-served” principle in ITU satellite coordination well suited for D2D and other future connectivity models and requirements?
  • With D2D connectivity set for discussion at WRC-27, what is the situation in the interim 4-year period? Where does the balance lie between not stifling innovation, but also ensuring the protection of all users on a temporary basis whilst long-term solutions are found?
  • How can regulatory sandboxes facilitate experimentation and innovation in the deployment of new technologies in Latin America, drawing on the example of the recent consultation in Brazil?
  • How can HIBS and HAPS contribute to extending broadband coverage in remote areas of Latin America, and how can regulators create conducive environments for their implementation and interoperability with existing networks?
  • Are there any examples of initiatives or partnerships and constellation launch plans for D2D and IOT services in other Latin American countries?
  • To what extent is there a need for a regional-wide harmonized approach in the long-term including regulatory and technical boundary conditions for supporting all these new technologies?
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Moderator: Agostinho Linhares
Executive Director, Research Institute for Digital Economy - IPE Digital
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Maria Myers-Hamilton
Managing Director, Spectrum Management Authority of Jamaica
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Lizania Margarita Pérez Rodríguez
Executive Secretary, Comisión Técnica Regional de Telecomunicaciones (COMTELCA)
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Sergio Marquez
Director, Regulatory Affairs, EchoStar Corporation
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Luciana Camargos
Head of Spectrum, GSMA
Session 7: Maximising the potential of direct-to-device and the next generation of NTN connectivity – what are set to be the key bands and connectivity models? image
Mindel De La Torre
Head of Global Regulatory Affairs, Skylo Technologies
08:30 - 09:00
Networking Breakfast in partnership with Conectadas
09:00 - 09:15
Thinking Point: Where are we now? Progress in 5G rollout across the region and proposed next steps
Thinking Point: Where are we now? Progress in 5G rollout across the region  and proposed next steps image
Cesar Gutierrez Miguelez
Policy Advisor, Huawei
09:15 - 10:30
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America?

In Latin America and across the rest of the world, work has begun on exploring options for the key bands that will form the basis of the initial primary and pioneer spectrum for the rollout of 6G services. Latin American countries played a key role in identifying the bands that have been identified for potential IMT identification in region 2 ahead of WRC-27 (7125 – 8400 MHz and 14.8 – 15.35 GHz). These bands are predominantly used for fixed services in Latin America, meaning that whilst there are still challenges associated with freeing them up and making them available for 6G, these are potentially less than in other regions in which they are harmonized for NATO and military use. Against this backdrop, this session will focus on the early work in the region towards developing a spectrum roadmap for 6G and look at how the needs of 6G can be balanced both with those of incumbent users and with those of other evolving future connectivity technologies. Latin America has been prominent in decisions around the bands to be studied for 6G at WRC-27, and the session will discuss the best approach that can now be taken across the region to build on this and to ensure that the right decisions are taken on both bands and strategies for 6G launch to enable the benefits of this key technology to be felt as soon as possible.
 

  • How much spectrum will be required for the initial rollout of 6G across Latin America and its future growth and expansion? When will this bandwidth be required?
  • To what extent can the refarming or sharing of existing IMT bands be part of the solution to meet the demand of 6G, and how much ‘new’ spectrum will be needed?
  • Given that many countries in the region are still focussing on the rollout of 5G (and in some cases 4G) services, how can the need to start preparing for 6G be balanced with these other vital priorities?
  • As we move towards 6G, how can the spectrum need for this be balanced with the needs of other future connectivity technologies to ensure the requirements of everyone are met?
  • Is it inevitable that one or more of the candidate bands that have been identified for study for IMT use in region 2 ahead of WRC-27 (7125 – 8400 MHz and 14.8 – 15.35 GHz) will provide the backbone for the initial 6G rollout in Latin America, or are there other bands that may also come into the mix?
  • What challenges exist in freeing up spectrum in these bands and making it available for 6G across the Latin America region? How do these differ from challenges that are seen in other regions?
  • With the 4400 – 4800 MHz band identified to be studied in regions 1 and 3 but not in region 2, could this still be an option that could be considered? What specific challenges would need to be overcome in this band?
  • How can Latin American countries continue to play the prominent role that they have done to date both across the Americas and to some extent globally when it comes to decisions relating to the identification of spectrum for 6G and even in the rollout of services?
  • How important is it for countries in the region to work together as a block and deliver a coordinated approach to maintain their influence? How can relationships with US and Canada also fit as part of this?
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Moderator: Alexandra Contreras
Advisor Spectrum Policy, Forum Global
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Tania Villa Trapala
Director General for Spectrum Planning, IFT Mexico
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Dante Ibarra
World Radiocommunication Conference Director, FCC
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Cristiana Camarate
Commissioner, ANATEL Brazil
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Cindy Cook
Global Head, Spectrum & Technology Regulation, Ericsson
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Hector Marin
Senior Director, Government Affairs, Qualcomm
Session 8: Spectrum Roadmap for 6G – what is the best approach for Latin America? image
Hazem Moakkit
Vice President, Spectrum Strategy, Intelsat
10:30 - 10:45
Thinking Point: Programme Making & Special Events (PMSE) in the Future Connectivity Ecosystem
Thinking Point: Programme Making & Special Events (PMSE) in the Future Connectivity Ecosystem image
Prakash Moorut
Global Head of Spectrum & Regulatory Affairs, Shure
10:45 - 11:00
Refreshment Break
11:00 - 11:55
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases

As the demand for localized private networks continues to grow around the globe, the allocation of spectrum for vertical industries becomes increasingly crucial. This session will look at the work in this area that is taking place, and the different approaches, models and spectrum bands that are emerging across the region.
 

  • What are the principle use cases for private networks across the region?
  • What research is being seen across the region when it comes to finding the best mechanisms and models to meet the connectivity needs of these vertical users and use cases?
  • What approaches are starting to emerge across different countries and what spectrum bands are being used and proposed?
  • What role are different connectivity providers playing, and what is likely to be the mix of different technologies and mechanisms that will make up the vertical connectivity ecosystem in the future?
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases image
Moderator: Paola Herrera
Senior Analyst Americas, Cullen International
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases image
Raul Dominguez
Head of Regulatory Policy, SUBTEL Chile
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases image
Héctor Budé
Head of Spectrum Management Department, URSEC Uruguay
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases image
Carol Sosa Leguizamón
Spectrum Policy Director, GSMA
Session 9: Spectrum for vertical industries: strategies to meet the connectivity needs of key users and use cases image
Joshua Baggett
Head of Global Spectrum Policy, HPE
11:55 - 12:00
Closing Presentation
Closing Presentation image
Sóstenes Díaz González
Commissioner, IFT Mexico
12:00
Final Remarks & End of Conference
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This conference will be held under a Hybrid Format. To ensure the health and safety of our speakers, attendees, sponsors and staff while maximising interaction amongst participants, in-person attendance at this event may be limited.

We will continue to monitor developments around the COVID-19 pandemic, follow recommendations regarding masks, social distancing, and sanitation set out by the venue and local authorities and may revise the capacity limit based on the advice received.

Event Background

Launched in 2014, and now in its eleventh year, The Latin America Spectrum Management Conference has previously taken place in Peru, Buenos Aires, Colombia, Brazil and Mexico, as well as fully virtual editions in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Global Spectrum Series

This event takes places as part of the Global Spectrum Series – the world’s largest collection of regional spectrum policy conferences. 

2023 Edition

Taking place in February 2024 following WRC-23, we were joined by more than 200 delegates in Brasilia, Brazil. Find more information and catch up on the highlights at the links below.

Contact

For more information on any aspect of this event,
please contact Ariana Martins using the details below.

[email protected]

Tel: +44 (0) 2920 783 020 

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