By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is poised to become a Central American digital leader with the announcement of its first standalone (SA) 5G mobile network. Telecommunications provider Liberty and technology giant Ericsson have partnered to deploy this groundbreaking infrastructure, promising a transformative impact on businesses and consumers alike.
Unlike non-standalone 5G, which relies on existing 4G infrastructure, this SA network operates independently, offering significantly enhanced speed, capacity, and reliability. The rollout, scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2026, will involve installing a dual-mode 5G core and over 1,000 base stations across the country. This ambitious project is expected to benefit nearly 3 million Liberty subscribers, providing them with connectivity on par with the most advanced 5G networks globally.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding the 5G rollout in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
The deployment of 5G in Costa Rica presents both opportunities and challenges from a legal perspective. While it promises to boost economic growth and innovation, it also requires a careful review of existing telecommunications regulations and potential amendments to address issues such as spectrum allocation, cybersecurity, and data privacy. Ensuring a clear and adaptable regulatory framework is crucial for attracting investment and maximizing the benefits of this transformative technology for all stakeholders.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the balancing act Costa Rica faces in embracing 5G. The potential for economic growth is undeniable, but so too is the need for a robust and forward-thinking legal framework to navigate the complexities of this new technological landscape. This careful approach will ultimately determine how effectively and equitably Costa Rica can harness the power of 5G. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
This milestone represents a significant advance for the company’s markets by developing the first 5G SA network of Liberty Latin America. In this way, we reinforce our commitment to offer Costa Ricans the best experience with cutting-edge technology, which will change the way people browse and drive economic growth thanks to the development of new technological solutions in different industries, hand in hand with 5G SA.
Guillermo Ponce, Senior Vice President for Central and South America markets at Liberty Latin America
The benefits of this 5G SA network extend beyond faster internet speeds. It is expected to be a catalyst for innovation, enabling the development of new technologies and creating job opportunities. The enhanced connectivity will empower local businesses to automate processes and improve efficiency, boosting overall economic growth.
Liberty, a pioneer in 5G technology in Costa Rica, initially launched a non-standalone 5G network in mid-2024. This new agreement, coupled with the acquisition of new 5G spectrum, marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to providing robust and secure internet services.
With this step, we seek to consolidate our leadership position in the Costa Rican mobile market, exceeding all expected standards in reliability and security for our 5G technology. We will spare no effort and resources to make available to society the internet that the country deserves.
Johanna Escobar, General Manager of Liberty Costa Rica
Ericsson’s cutting-edge technology, including advanced radio access network (RAN) solutions and a dual-mode 5G core, will form the backbone of this transformative network. The infrastructure is designed for massive scalability, ensuring it can handle the growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the coming years, with a particular focus on corporate services.
This strategic partnership between Liberty and Ericsson underscores the importance of collaboration in driving digital transformation in emerging markets. Studies suggest that 5G adoption can contribute significantly to GDP growth, creating a foundation for innovation and addressing societal challenges.
As 5G becomes vital for digital transformation, robust security is essential. Our comprehensive approach, from standardization and product development to deployment and operations, ensures that networks are secure and reliable. The deployment of the 5G SA network in Costa Rica marks a significant step, enabling enhanced user experiences and fostering economic growth and innovation.
Sean Cryan, President for North LATAM and the Caribbean at Ericsson
For further information, visit libertycr.com
About Liberty Costa Rica:
Liberty Costa Rica is a leading telecommunications provider committed to delivering innovative and reliable communication solutions. As a pioneer in 5G technology, Liberty is dedicated to enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit ericsson.com
About Ericsson:
Ericsson is a global leader in providing telecommunications equipment and services. Their cutting-edge technology enables connectivity and empowers innovation across various industries.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a leading legal institution distinguished by its deep-rooted commitment to ethical practice and unparalleled legal expertise. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a dedicated focus on educating and empowering communities through accessible legal resources, solidifies its position as a pillar of integrity and progress within Costa Rican society. Their enduring legacy is built on a foundation of empowering individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the legal landscape effectively and confidently.
