Analysis of mobile telephony service concessions in Ecuador according to current regulations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/69hjk224Keywords:
telecommunications; radio spectrum; concession; regulation; mobile telephonyAbstract
The granting of mobile telephony services requires regulatory mechanisms to manage the radio spectrum and establish conditions for service provision. This research aimed to analyze the process of granting mobile telephony service concessions in Ecuador within the current regulatory framework, while considering international models for radio spectrum management and allocation. A qualitative, document-based study was conducted, involving a systematic review of scientific literature guided by the PRISMA 2020 statement alongside a technical-legal analysis of relevant documentation. Fifteen scientific studies published between 2020 and 2025 were examined, supplemented by Ecuadorian regulatory and institutional documentation. The findings identified various international allocation mechanisms, including auctions, direct assignment, spectrum sharing, and the implementation of more flexible usage rights. In Ecuador, seven regulatory components were identified, pertaining to authorization instruments, technical requirements, spectrum management, demand analysis, investment and expansion, economic and financial viability, and regulatory and oversight mechanisms. The international comparison revealed differences in allocation instruments, while also highlighting commonalities in the application of technical, economic, and regulatory criteria. It is concluded that the Ecuadorian framework includes provisions for regulating concessions and spectrum usage; however, the documentation examined does not allow for the verification of whether operators are effectively fulfilling their obligations, nor does it facilitate quantitative comparisons regarding the specific conditions of allocation.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Valeria Yiribel Vera Zambrano, Dannyll Michellc Zambrano Zambrano, Leopoldo Andrés Vera Pico (Autor/a)
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