Roundup: Peru internet subsidies, Colombia consultation, Paraguay tender, and more

Fitel subsidies

Peru is mulling subsidizing household broadband internet contracts via the Fitel telecoms investment fund.

The initiative aims at reducing the digital gap and would involve annual subsidies of 89.7 million soles (US$24mn), according to a press release by the transport and communications ministry. The plan subsidizes demand in urban areas where there is at least one fixed internet carrier available.

Around 243,000 families should benefit initially. The government estimates that the program could gradually reach 420,000 families. To that end, Fitel's contribution would increase from 1-2% to up to 3%. 

Colombian consultation

Colombia’s IT regulator CRC published for comment a consultation to update a framework on technical regulations for internal telecoms networks (RITEL), in force since 2019. 

The document includes technical and network construction aspects, and minimum technical characteristics of infrastructures associated with the provision of telecom services inside buildings and housing complexes, a press release said. 

The call is open until September 30 and can be accessed here.

G20 and digital economy

Brazil announced the conclusion of works of the G20 Digital Economy Working Group (G20 DEWG), whose meetings were being held in Maceió, Alagoas state. Brazil is chairing these meetings because it currently holds the G20 presidency. 

Representatives of the bloc's members, invited countries and participating international organizations approved the sector's ministerial declaration.

Agreed themes include digital inclusion, universal connectivity, digital government and digital public infrastructure, data security, and AI for sustainable development and reduction of inequalities.

The work developed throughout the year within the scope of the G20 DEWG will serve as a basis for policies by G20 countries, the government said in a statement.

Uruguay TV consultation

Uruguayan regulator Ursec opened a public consultation on the partial transfer and change of control of pay-TV company Fray Bentos Video Cable, which operates in the city of Fray Bentos, Río Negro department.

The deadline for participation in the process is October 13 and details can be seen here.

Paraguay emergency services tender

Paraguayan telecoms regulator Conatel launched a tender for the development of an emergency and security center in Pilar city, including the provision of mobile services and related equipment.

The initiative will be partially subsidized by the universal telecom services fund, according to Conatel. 

Bids can be submitted until September 23. More information can be found here.