In a bid to introduce 5G mobile communication standards in Georgia, the National Commission on Communications and Communications has announced an upcoming auction, along with consultations for interested parties.
The auction comprises 23 lots that include bands of 700, 3400-3700, and 2600 MHz, as well as 800 MHz. The higher frequency bands will provide faster internet speeds in large cities, while the lower frequency bands will cover larger areas with lower population densities.
The main auction will feature four combined abstract lots with varying initial contributions, each consisting of bands from two different ranges. Operators winning these lots will be obligated to provide 5G coverage to densely populated areas, tourist zones, ports, airports, railways, and major highways in Georgia within the next 3-7 years.
Additionally, there will be 19 separate lots up for auction, with participation limited to the winners of the main combined lots. All auction winners will need to follow EU technical standards when building their 5G networks and allow mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) access to their networks on fair and non-discriminatory terms, as a prerequisite for obtaining a 5G frequency on all lots.