Telecom operators may receive relief from frequency payments in regions where they extend coverage to hard‑to‑reach and sparsely populated areas. This approach aims to ensure networks reach remote settlements that are often underserved, improving connectivity where it matters most.
Under a decision by the State Radio Frequency Commission, operators can be exempted from paying for frequencies in zones where they commit to building networks in difficult-to-reach locations and low‑density communities. The ruling emerged from the SCRF’s latest gathering, held on the date of the prior notice. Industry sources indicate that the benefit could apply when operators install up to four base stations per quarter in settlements with populations of around 1,000 people or fewer.
One industry contact noted that the measure is designed to take effect in the near term, with the third quarter of the year often cited as a milestone. The full rollout, however, has faced obstacles from regulatory authorities, which have yet to publish formal criteria detailing exactly where the exemptions apply. While the Ministry of Digital Development has held discussions with all stakeholders, reaching a single, unified framework has proved challenging.
Another source highlighted that the discount could lead to substantial savings for network operators, potentially reducing the financial burden of spectrum costs. If implemented, the policy could relieve public budgets from large spectrum expenditures, freeing resources for broader digital infrastructure investments. Slower progress appears linked to the remaining absence of clearly defined placement criteria.
Previously, the Ministry of Digital Development, in conjunction with major domestic telecom players, prepared a version of an industry development strategy aimed at 2035. The document outlined a plan to modernize the network backbone, shifting away from legacy LTE equipment and older generations toward more advanced domestic solutions. It suggested that earlier-generation technologies should be progressively replaced and that the transition to next‑generation standards would continue through the late decade, aligning with national ambitions for a robust, self‑reliant communications ecosystem.