MADRID, Spain-The Spanish government is considering easing terms of third-generation licenses in the country, including reducing the investment guarantees required by 3G license holders and allowing network sharing.
According to international press reports, the country’s science and technology minister is considering cutting investment guarantees from more than $7 billion to just more than $1 billion. The reduction would help small operators in particular with borrowing costs by reducing the credit facility they maintain.
The government also is reported to be considering allowing network sharing among Spain’s four 3G license holders, greatly reducing buildout costs.
Telefonica Moviles, Vodafone, Amena and Xfera hold Spanish 3G licenses.
Earlier this year, Spain reduced the spectrum tax paid by mobile operators by 75 percent and pushed back rollout deadlines.
