In a statement, the GSMA considered that the upcoming WRC-23 can be used “to provide affordable 5G” in Latin America, for which it “urges” the countries of the region “to consider” three actions at WRC-23. These are: 1) Identify the 3.3-3.4 GHz and 3.6-3.8 GHz bands for IMT; 2) Identify the 7.025-7.125 GHz band for IMT and review mechanisms to identify the broader range of 6.425-7.025 GHz for IMT in ITU Region 2 (which corresponds to the Americas); 3) Support IMT identification in the 4.8-4.99 GHz band.

According to the GSMA “the Americas can join the group of 5G leaders by harmonizing the 3.5 GHz band, at least up to 3.8 GHz.”

The organization that brings together operators recalled that 65% of 5G launches have used this spectrum, making the band the most important for 5G today.

In addition, “the administrations of the countries in CITEL can increase this capacity with spectrum in the 4.8-4.99 GHz band, which allows expanding 5G capacity, especially where it is not expected to expand the use of the 3.5 GHz band in the 3.8-4.2 GHz range.”

Regarding the 6 GHz band for IMT, it considered that “connecting the countries of the Americas at speeds similar to those of fiber through FWA can be a reality if we have IMT services in 6 GHz.”

It added that “This range is the largest block of mid-band spectrum available for IMT in the foreseeable future. If used for 5G, it can play a vital role in sustainable social, economic and industrial development”.

In relation to access to more low band spectrum (470-694 MHz), it noted that “it is on the WRC agenda for countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). The impact is indirect on CITEL, but the countries of the Americas can support this opportunity to increase harmonization”.

Likewise, “Global progress in low-band spectrum adds to the development of the 600 MHz band in North America and promotes greater harmonization and scale that, in turn, helps more people receive affordable and sustainable 5G services in the world".