How is Colombia doing in the transition to 5G technology?

For Chafic Nassif, President of Ericsson for North Latin America and the Caribbean, the impetus for the deployment of 5G in the region must continue, especially in countries like Colombia where the adoption of this technology is still lagging behind.

(See: They advance at full speed for 5G connection in Colombia).

The executive also pointed out that one of the issues that should be prioritized in the country is the spectrum discussion.

How do you see Colombia in the transition to 5G?

The country is at a turning point, with many changes. In fact, the presidential advisor for Digital Transformation for Colombia (Saúl Kattan) has highlighted that there is 66% of the spectrum that is about to be renewed and I think that this must be seen as an opportunity and not as a problem. It is a great moment for the Government, operators, academia and private companies, such as Ericsson, to come together and see how progress can be made.

(See: 5G technology, in the roadmap of Colombia and the world).

What would be the proposal to reach that goal?

From my point of view, I believe that we must solve, in a good way, the issue of spectrum and its costs, since spectrum is the heart of the industry. As a second step, we need a balance between the short term, to start with 5G and improve connectivity; and the long term, and here I refer to investments. I actually remember when I lived in Taiwan, they had a spectrum auction. The regulator decided to return incentives to operators in exchange for asking them to build the necessary coverage. The result was positive: in just two years they had more than 90% coverage in 5G. I think the regulator needs a balance between short-term revenue and long-term benefits to the economy.

The task is to think about what Colombia needs and what is the best alternative.

Do you think that inflation and the rise of the dollar can delay the arrival of 5G?

Inflation has been having a global impact and has affected all industries. At Ericsson we have learned from the challenges and we know the importance of diversifying our supply chain, in order to support operators. However, through studies we have shown that consumers see the value of connectivity and, above all, 5G. I think we have to continue betting on that evolution. Colombia must reach the next level.

What industries will benefit from 5G?

5G can impact different industries such as the energy mining sector, manufacturing, health, among others. In addition, it can help countries move forward.

(See: 5G network would help close the gap between Latin America and advanced economies).

How has the experience been in those countries where 5G has been adopted?

The experience is certainly varied. For example, Asia is very advanced, today Taiwan has 90% 5G coverage and we have seen a positive impact. In Europe the dynamic is similar and there is evidence of progress in innovation. Latin America is on the right track, for example Mexico has had a high adoption and today has 40% of the territory with 5G.

There is still a long way to go and we hope that Colombia can adopt 5G very soon.

However, the first ones are not always the best, since many times they must overcome the great challenges. Colombia is an innovative country and I know that it will soon adopt 5G.

(See: Will 5G technology affect the aviation industry?).

How is the conflict with Apple going, taking into account that its new 5G cell phones cannot be sold in the country?

At Ericsson we invest a lot of resources in research and when you put a lot of investment into development you have to protect your intellectual property, that’s very important. With Apple, specifically, we have a good cooperation, in terms of intellectual property. However, in January of this year our agreement related to intellectual property expired and we have been in negotiations trying to renew those agreements. So far we have not reached an agreement. This is not only in Colombia, but also in other countries.

JOHANA LORDUY
Journalist Portfolio