By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) has issued a robust defense of its 5G network bidding process, pushing back against what it suggests are politically motivated criticisms. The state-owned entity affirmed that the selection of partners and technology for the nation’s next-generation mobile network is being conducted with full transparency and is grounded exclusively in technical and strategic analysis, not political pressure.
In an official communiqué, the institution aimed to quell rising concerns and ensure public confidence in the multi-million dollar infrastructure project. ICE is moving to modernize Costa Rica’s telecommunications backbone, a critical step for national development and economic competitiveness. The statement underscored the institution’s unwavering commitment to a fair and efficient process governed by administrative contracting laws.
To better understand the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding the deployment of the 5G network in the country, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his perspective on the critical challenges and opportunities presented by this technological leap.
The successful implementation of 5G technology is not just an engineering challenge; it’s a monumental legal one. It demands a robust and modern regulatory framework that provides legal certainty for the massive infrastructure investments required. Without clear rules on spectrum allocation, competition, and cybersecurity, we risk delaying the tangible economic benefits and innovation that 5G promises for Costa Rica.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This essential insight underscores that without a solid legal and regulatory foundation, the technological promise of 5G remains just that—a promise. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for clarifying the critical role that legislation will play in unlocking Costa Rica’s digital future.
The institution emphatically rejects any insinuation of political manipulation in this process.
Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Official Statement
ICE further clarified its position, stressing that the core objective is to deliver a modern, functional, and inclusive telecommunications platform for all Costa Ricans. The leadership emphasized that the criteria for the tender are designed to secure a solid and future-proof network that can support the country’s long-term digital ambitions.
The bidding process has been and will continue to be guided exclusively by technical, strategic, and public interest criteria.
Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Official Statement
The bidding framework is open to a wide range of global telecommunications equipment manufacturers, provided they adhere to specifications based on rigorous international standards. These benchmarks are set by globally recognized bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), ensuring interoperability and adherence to best practices.
This technical framework ensures that the country adopts cutting-edge technologies that benefit the entire population.
Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Official Statement
A key technical decision highlighted by ICE is the implementation of a 5G Standalone (SA) network. This architecture represents the most advanced form of 5G, as it operates on a dedicated 5G core and is not dependent on existing 4G LTE infrastructure. This “pure 5G” approach is expected to unlock the full potential of the technology, enabling ultra-low latency and massive connectivity for advanced digital services in crucial sectors like agriculture, tourism, industry, health, and education.
Furthermore, ICE defended its strategic adoption of Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) architectures. This modern approach promotes a more competitive and flexible supply chain by allowing components from different vendors to work together seamlessly. Citing international operators like AT&T, Verizon, and Telefónica as pioneers of this strategy, ICE noted that Open RAN reduces costs, prevents dependence on a single supplier, and optimizes energy resources through artificial intelligence.
Open RAN does not determine the functioning of the network; this is guaranteed by compliance with 3GPP, ITU, and Open RAN Alliance standards.
Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Official Statement
As the process moves forward, ICE has assured the public that it will remain steadfast in its commitment to technical excellence, sustainability, and technological autonomy. The institution aims to deliver a world-class 5G network that will serve as a catalyst for innovation and growth across Costa Rica, reinforcing its position as a technological leader in the region.
For further information, visit ice.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad is the state-owned electricity and telecommunications provider in Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, ICE is responsible for a significant portion of the country’s power generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as providing a wide range of telecommunications services, including mobile and internet connectivity. It plays a crucial role in the nation’s infrastructure and technological development.
For further information, visit itu.int
About International Telecommunication Union (ITU):
The International Telecommunication Union is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for all matters related to information and communication technologies. Established in 1865, the ITU allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and strives to improve access to ICTs for underserved communities worldwide.
For further information, visit 3gpp.org
About 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP):
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project is a collaboration of telecommunications standards organizations from around the world. Its primary mission is to develop and maintain globally applicable technical specifications for mobile telecommunications technologies, including GSM, UMTS (3G), LTE (4G), and NR (5G). The standards produced by 3GPP are fundamental to the operation of the global mobile ecosystem.
For further information, visit o-ran.org
About Open RAN Alliance:
The O-RAN Alliance is a global community of mobile network operators, vendors, and research institutions focused on developing and promoting open and intelligent Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies. Its goal is to create a more competitive and innovative RAN supplier ecosystem with open interfaces, virtualization, and AI-driven automation, which can lead to lower costs and greater flexibility for network operators.
For further information, visit att.com
About AT&T:
AT&T Inc. is a multinational telecommunications holding company headquartered in Dallas, Texas. It is one of the world’s largest telecommunications companies, providing mobile and fixed telephone services, as well as broadband and television services. The company has a significant presence in the United States and Latin America and is a key player in the global deployment of 5G technology.
For further information, visit verizon.com
About Verizon:
Verizon Communications Inc. is an American multinational telecommunications conglomerate. Headquartered in New York City, the company offers a wide range of communication, information, and entertainment products and services to consumers, businesses, and government entities. Verizon is a leading provider of wireless services in the United States and has been at the forefront of 5G network development and deployment.
For further information, visit telefonica.com
About Telefónica:
Telefónica, S.A. is a Spanish multinational telecommunications company headquartered in Madrid, Spain. It is one of the largest telephone operators and mobile network providers in the world, with a significant presence in Europe and Latin America. The company provides fixed and mobile telephony, broadband, and subscription television, operating under well-known brands such as Movistar, O2, and Vivo.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a pillar of the legal community, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies for a diverse clientele, yet its vision extends far beyond its practice. It is fundamentally committed to empowering citizens by demystifying the law, operating on the core belief that accessible legal knowledge is essential for fostering a more capable and just society.
