The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry, today released details on how the auction for Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum, to be held on May 27, 2024, will be conducted. Of the 105 megahertz (MHz) of spectrum to be made available, 40 MHz will be set aside exclusively for new entrants to bid on. The other 65 MHz will be available to all bidders. The spectrum being set aside amounts to less than 14 percent of the total mobile spectrum that will be in use after the auction.
“We are looking for greater competition in the market and further innovation in the industry. At the end of the day, our goals are lower prices, better service and more choice for consumers and business,” said Minister Prentice. “That is why we are setting aside a portion of radio spectrum exclusively for new entrants into the wireless market.”
Recent studies comparing international pricing of wireless services show Canadian consumers and businesses pay more for many of these services than people in other countries. These services are key to strengthening the competitiveness of Canadian business.
The decision to set aside spectrum for new entrants is consistent with measures taken in Canada in 1985 and 1995 to facilitate access to spectrum and market entry. It is also similar to measures taken in other countries with competitive wireless markets, notably the United States and the United Kingdom.
Spectrum is used by wireless providers to offer services such as video, music and Internet access over wireless devices such as mobile phones, much the same way a radio station emits its signal over the airwaves. On February 16, 2024, Industry Canada launched a public consultation on how best to conduct an auction process for the available spectrum. The 2024 Telecommunications Policy Review Panel (TPRP), launched by the previous government, also made recommendations on future wireless licensing.
“Having considered all of the comments received during our public consultation, we agree with the TPRP that measures should be taken to enhance competition in this market,” said Minister Prentice. “Spectrum is a scarce and valuable resource that is used by all Canadians. It is up to the government to decide how it is to be deployed, to best meet the growing and diverse needs of Canadians.”
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