Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, Francois-Philippe Champagne, announced the launch of the consultation on a policy and licensing framework for spectrum in the 3800MHz band to support 5G and promote competition in mobile services. The consultation specifically seeks input on issues such as the network build-out requirements that should be imposed on licence holders, measures within the auction framework to support competition, and additional provisions to support Canada's Connectivity Strategy.

This consultation follows the decision to repurpose the 3800MHz band to support 5G services, which was announced in May 2021, with a 3800MHz spectrum auction planned for early 2023. Comments will be accepted for a 60-day period, followed by a 30-day reply period.

Thanks to TeleGeography for this industry update.