Mexico’s telecoms regulator Cofetel has hinted it may quickly follow its current 3G auctions with further auctions in 700MHz, the band suitable for so-called ‘next-generation’ technologies such as LTE. “We will advance in our studies regarding a tender at the behest of the [transport and communications ministry] SCT and, in conjunction with them, we will look at possibly using the 700MHz band,” said Cofetel head Héctor Osuna, reports BNamericas. He said that the spectrum will be made available to meet the growing demand for mobile broadband services such as mobile TV.

Meanwhile, Mexico officially started its long-awaited 3G auction process today (Wednesday), making the bidding rules available for a cost of MXN20,000 (US$1,538) until 8 March. According to earlier reports, Cofetel will auction nine blocks of 3G spectrum in the 1850MHz-1990MHz band in eight of the country’s nine mobile operating regions, including the capital Mexico City. Cofetel said it will also offer seven blocks of spectrum between 1710MHz and 2170MHz in all nine operating regions, which could give auction winners a nationwide presence. The auction is open to both existing spectrum holders and potential new market entrants.