The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) is reportedly planning to include 5G-capable spectrum in an upcoming frequency auction.
Local news outlet News First quoted Sri Lanka’s Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa as saying that the regulator planned to break with tradition by awarding spectrum licences through a competitive bidding process.
Rajapaksa explained that the decision to alter the licensing process was taken due to the high levels of capital expenditure made via the previous issuing process. He reportedly also confirmed that 5G-capable frequencies would be made available for bidding.
TeleGeography reports that while details are scarce, the regulator plans to award licences for mobile as well as fixed operators, internet service providers, and satellite broadcasters.