Country profiles updated for 2023

We have analysed their spectrum release plans, among other things, and focused on key issues like their approaches to the 6 GHz band, their policies on private networks, and their plans for 6G.

It is always striking how much policy varies from country to country, despite the best attempts of international organisations to encourage harmonisation.

The US, for example, has decided to open the entire 6 GHz band for unlicensed use, and many neighbouring countries (such as Canada) have decided to follow suit. However, many Latin American countries have not.

That said, many of the countries we have surveyed do have similarities. There is a clear focus on facilitating 5G rollout, for example, and on making more spectrum available for 5G. Releasing spectrum in various bands for use by big organisations in specific locations—private networks—is also a priority.

Interest in 6G varies a great deal. India has published a “6G Vision” document, which recommends creating a new body to study spectrum coexistence and how to free up more frequencies for IMT. The UK has published a 6G strategy as part of a broader “Wireless Infrastructure Strategy”.

Other countries, however, prefer a “wait and see” approach.

The 2023 country profiles are now available to Spectrum Research Service subscribers. An overview of the key developments in each of the countries can be found here. The individual profiles can be accessed here.