Portugal telecom spectrum dispute threatens Digi market entry

A dispute over radio spectrum management in Portugal has intensified following Digi's potential withdrawal from the market. A public petition, which has gathered over 1,200 signatures, is calling on the regulator, ANACOM, to reconsider the automatic renewal of spectrum rights for the three incumbent operators: MEO, NOS, and Vodafone.

The Portuguese Competition Authority (AdC) previously warned that renewing the current licenses could block new competitors from entering the market. Proponents of the petition argue that preventing direct renewals in the 800 MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2600 MHz bands in favor of competitive auctions is essential to protect consumer interests. Estimates suggest that a lack of competition could cost consumers up to 3.5 billion euros over 15 years.

In response, Apritel, the association representing MEO, NOS, and Vodafone, has criticized these proposals. Apritel claims that redistributing spectrum as suggested by Digi would lead to “chaos” in telecommunications networks, potentially creating coverage gaps and leaving metropolitan areas without sufficient capacity. The association maintains that existing frequency bands are sufficient and that failing to renew current licenses would jeopardize network functionality by 2027.