The MCA publishes the Call for Applications leading to the grant of the rights of use of additional spectrum for wireless broadband

Following an interest as expressed by one of the local mobile operators, the Malta Communications Authority is inviting applications from the parties who have expressed their interest in additional spectrum for wireless broadband in the 800 MHz band, 1800 MHz band and the 2.5 GHz band respectively.

This call complements the Authority's efforts to promote strong competition in the mobile market through the availability of sufficient spectrum to meet the coverage and quality demands of the mobile market. Since 2014, the Authority has made available additional spectrum in the 800 MHz, 1.5 GHz and 2.5 GHz bands and is now working towards releasing spectrum in the 700 MHz and 3.6 GHz bands for 5G. This work entailed, amongst others, the migration of the digital television broadcasts and initiatives aimed at ensuring the removal of interference from neighbouring countries. The “fifth generation” of technologies is seen by Europe as the most critical building block of its digital society in the next decade.  5G is expected to be a game changer, enabling wireless broadband services at low latency and gigabit speed.

In its most recent market review as at June 2017, the MCA notes that year-on-year growth in mobile telephony service subscriptions are up by 3.5%. This figure is surpassed by demand for mobile broadband services which are up by 21.7% during the same period. This demand excludes increased usage from foreigners visiting Malta and benefiting from the implementation of the roam like at home initiative. The MCA, through its Information Society initiatives, also invests significantly in educational activities promoting the effective use of digital technologies for the benefit of the Maltese population.

The allocation of this spectrum is necessary to sustain this increase in demand and is expected to lead to faster mobile broadband speeds, lower prices, greater innovation, new investment and better coverage. The MCA also expects that the Maltese population will be able to benefit from ubiquitous 4G+ services by the end of the year.

The MCA will be receiving applications for the Call until Monday 19th February 2018 12:00 CET.

View Press Release in Maltese.

Published on: 12/01/2018