Uruguay's 3.5 GHz spectrum auction, conducted on May 9, 2023, by the Regulatory Unit of Communications Services (URSEC), witnessed the participation of two key operators: Claro and Movistar. The focus was on acquiring a combined total of 2x100MHz of spectrum within the 3.5GHz frequency band.

Ultimately, Claro emerged victorious in the auction, securing a single 100MHz block for a total of USD 28.1 million. Meanwhile, Movistar secured the other 100MHz block, making a payment of USD 28.05 million. Notably, the government had established a minimum reserve price of USD 28 million per block.

This auction's outcomes underscore a triumph for the Uruguayan government, which managed to amass a revenue of USD 56.15 million. The substantial sums offered by Claro and Movistar echo the heightened demand for spectrum in Uruguay, as telecommunications providers gear up to roll out their 5G networks.

The auction represents a significant advancement for Uruguay's 5G market. The newly acquired licenses will enable both Claro and Movistar to augment their 5G infrastructure, thereby furnishing swifter and more dependable services to both consumers and businesses in Uruguay.