Panama opens international tender for a third mobile network operator

On June 9, 2026, the National Authority of Public Services (ASEP) officially launched Public Tender No. 01-2026-Telco: a 20-year concession to operate mobile telephony in Panama, including spectrum allocation for 5G in mid-band (3.5 GHz).

Key process details:

✦ 40 MHz of mid-band spectrum (3.5 GHz), with the option to acquire up to 60 MHz additionally

✦ 20-year concession, renewable

✦ Capacity to deploy 5G Stand Alone architecture from the initial phase

✦ Spectrum pricing among the most competitive in the region

The market:

Over 5 million active lines, 79% on prepaid plans, and more than 5.5 million number portability transactions since 2011 — a concrete indicator of consumer willingness to switch providers.

Key dates:

• August 11, 2026 — Prequalification deadline

• December 2026 — Projected concession award

Through CLD Legal's Investment Assistance Hub (HAI), we support international companies at every stage of market entry in Panama: corporate structuring, regulatory compliance, and operational establishment.