In-kind obligations for IMT spectrum in Latin America

In-kind obligations have been part of assignments since the beginning, initially to extend mobile service coverage. Their use as an alternative to upfront payments for IMT spectrum is part of the evolution of spectrum assignment and renewal processes.

Licence obligations are now viewed as a fundamental tool to close the connectivity gaps affecting Latin America. Governments in the region have decided to promote the use of obligations to accelerate new technology deployment, encourage adoption and promote digital transformation.

In-kind obligations are an effective mechanism to boost connectivity, as actions focus on specific goals designed to enhance socioeconomic wellbeing rather than raising public revenue.

This report identifies the challenges of the current approach in the region, proposes guidelines to address them, and outlines a roadmap for the future to design, value and properly implement in-kind obligations in collaboration with industry stakeholders.