The National Authority of Public Services (ASEP) of Panama has launched a public forum to discuss the allocation and use of the 6 GHz frequency band (5925 - 7125 MHz). The initiative aims to foster technical and regulatory dialogue, inviting stakeholders to submit comments and analyses to support decision-making regarding the future of this band. The forum follows previous public consultations and regulatory resolutions, with ASEP maintaining the current frequency allocations while continuing to monitor regional and global developments.

The 6 GHz band is considered strategic for both Wi-Fi technologies (notably Wi-Fi 6E and future generations) and International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), including 5G and potentially 6G. Two main scenarios are under consideration: allocating 500 MHz (5925 - 6425 MHz) for unlicensed use, or the entire 1200 MHz (5925 - 7125 MHz) for unlicensed use. The document highlights the lack of international consensus and the varied approaches adopted by different countries.

Currently, the band in Panama is primarily allocated for fixed and fixed satellite services, with 515 active assignments. The 6 GHz band is not enabled for Wi-Fi 6E, resulting in the rejection of at least 220 devices submitted for homologation. Technical recommendations are provided to minimize interference, including operational modes such as Low Power Indoor (LPI), Very Low Power (VLP), and Standard Power (SP).

ASEP's public forum seeks to maximize public interest through efficient spectrum use, considering the evolution of wireless technologies and growing connectivity demands. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate and provide technical input, with ASEP reaffirming its commitment to transparency and maintaining current allocations until a final decision is made.

This measure is classified as Medium Impact, as it is a public consultation with significant potential to affect spectrum allocation and device approval, but no final regulatory changes have been enacted yet.

Key reasons for medium impact:

• The consultation could lead to major changes in frequency allocation for Wi-Fi and IMT devices.
• Current restrictions have resulted in the rejection of numerous Wi-Fi 6E devices.
• Stakeholders including manufacturers, operators, and importers are directly affected by the outcome.

Who is affected?

Wi-Fi device manufacturers, mobile operators, importers, and users of wireless technologies.

Conclusion:

While the measure is not yet final, its scope and potential to reshape the regulatory landscape for wireless devices in Panama warrant close attention from all stakeholders.