Argentina has launched a call for a$200 million connectivity project funded by the World Bank. The project aims to strengthen broadband infrastructure and promote digital skills. The consultation, which ends on September 14, seeks input on various components of the initiative, including environmental and social management, participation of interested parties, and mechanisms for handling complaints and claims. The project plans to install open fiber optics, wireless or satellite networks in areas without connectivity, establish four data centers for state-owned Arsat, and promote digital skills.

In Colombia, efforts are underway to develop 5G services and improve connectivity in remote areas. Following industry comments, the second draft of the terms for the upcoming 5G auction will be published on September 1. The auction is scheduled for December 20. The ICT ministry has also extended the deadline for comments on the cross-indexation factor for permits to use radio spectrum until August 22, aiming to create investment incentives.

Paraguay's Ministry of Urbanism, Housing, and Habitat (MUVH) has started implementing an electronic file system as part of the country's digital agenda, supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Following the national securities commission, MUVH is the second public institution to adopt this tool. A total of 18 public institutions will implement this system as part of the digital agenda. Paraguayan lawmakers, the Cisoft software chamber, the Capace electronic commerce chamber, and the Paraguayan fintech chamber are collaborating to introduce a bill promoting financial inclusion. The initiative aims to enable over 300,000 people to access financial services by facilitating payment of salaries electronically.

The Mexican telecommunications regulator (IFT) and Huawei have signed a collaboration agreement to promote educational, training, and technological development projects in telecommunications. The deal includes joint activities such as conferences, workshops, and courses.

Why does it matter?

These news updates highlight advancements and initiatives in connectivity and telecommunications in Latin America. The projects aim to strengthen broadband infrastructure, develop 5G services, improve connectivity in remote areas, promote digital skills, ensure personal data protection, and foster technological development in the telecommunications sector.