MCA Consultation on Spectrum Rights Extension to 2033
Summary
The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has launched a consultation on extending spectrum rights for the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2.1 GHz bands until April 8, 2033. The MCA is also seeking feedback on the potential market interest in harmonized millimetre bands (26 GHz and 42 GHz) for wireless broadband services.
What changed
The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has initiated a public consultation regarding its strategic approach to managing radio spectrum bands, specifically proposing to extend the rights of use for the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2.1 GHz bands until April 8, 2033. This proposal aims to harmonize expiry dates for frequency bands below 3 GHz designated for wireless broadband services, thereby supporting mobile operators' long-term planning. Additionally, the MCA is soliciting stakeholder input on the potential market interest in utilizing the 26 GHz and 42 GHz harmonized millimetre bands for future wireless broadband services.
Interested parties, including telecommunications firms, are invited to submit their feedback by April 17, 2026. This consultation is crucial for shaping future spectrum allocation and policy, impacting operators' investment and service development strategies. Failure to participate may result in decisions being made without consideration of specific market needs or operational concerns.
What to do next
- Review the MCA consultation paper on spectrum rights extension.
- Submit feedback on the proposed extension of rights of use for 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2.1 GHz bands.
- Express views on potential market interest in 26 GHz and 42 GHz bands for wireless broadband services.
Source document (simplified)
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Strategic approach to managing spectrum bands for expiring rights of use
The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has published a consultation paper outlining its strategic approach to the management of radio spectrum bands with rights of use that are approaching expiry, specifically the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands. Through this consultation, the MCA is proposing to extend the existing rights of use in these bands until 8 April 2033. This proposal aims to establish a common expiry date for all frequency bands below 3 GHz, that are designated for terrestrial systems capable of providing wireless broadband electronic communications services. Aligning the expiry dates across these bands is intended to support mobile operators in the development of their long-term business and spectrum management roadmaps.
In addition, the MCA is inviting stakeholders to express their views on potential market interest in use of harmonised millimetre bands, specifically the 26 GHz and 42 GHz bands, for the future provision of wireless broadband electronic communications services.
Interested stakeholders are invited to participate in this consultative process and to submit their feedback. The consultation period runs from 17 March to 17 April 2026 (12:00hrs CET).
Closing On: Friday 17th April 2026 MCA Reference: MCA/C/26-5892 Regulatory Type: Electronic Communications Attachments: Consultation - Rights of Use Extension Proposal.pdf (993.69 KB)
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