By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s journey towards a 5G future has gained momentum following a key decision by the Comptroller General’s office (Contraloría General de la República, CGR). The CGR rejected several objections raised against the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad’s (ICE) 5G network development tender, deeming them unfounded. This ruling allows ICE to proceed with administrative and technical adjustments, enhancing clarity and encouraging broader participation from bidders.
The CGR’s resolution addresses both procedural and substantive concerns. Certain procedural objections, previously acknowledged by ICE, were partially upheld, leading to modifications in the tender document for improved administrative and technical clarity. This aims to streamline the process and attract a wider range of bids.
To gain deeper insight into the legal landscape surrounding 5G implementation in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The rollout of 5G in Costa Rica presents significant opportunities, but also requires careful consideration of the legal framework. Key areas include spectrum allocation, infrastructure deployment regulations, data privacy concerns under Ley 8968, and ensuring fair competition among telecommunication providers. Successfully navigating these complexities will be crucial for fostering innovation and maximizing the benefits of this transformative technology for all Costa Ricans.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the crucial balancing act Costa Rica faces: embracing 5G’s potential while safeguarding citizen rights and fostering a competitive market. This thoughtful approach, encompassing legal preparedness alongside technological advancement, will be essential to ensuring 5G truly benefits all sectors of Costa Rican society. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
Crucially, objections challenging core aspects of the acquisition and attempting to disrupt the bidding process were dismissed as baseless. This validation of ICE’s approach clears the path for the tender to continue unimpeded.
The CGR anchored its decision on principles of free competition, proportionality, reasonableness, and legality, adhering to national administrative contracting regulations. The tender document, as the guiding instrument, must ensure both fulfillment of public need and equal opportunity for bidders.
With this hurdle cleared, the objection phase concludes, and the bidding process can proceed. ICE remains committed to the efficient and organized advancement of this strategic project, promising enhanced connectivity and innovation for Costa Rica.
This development underscores ICE’s dedication to implementing 5G technology, benefitting individuals, businesses, and overall economic growth. The institution aims to solidify Costa Rica’s position as a telecommunications leader by promoting universal access to modern, high-quality services, aligning with international best practices.
The successful implementation of 5G is expected to have a transformative impact on various sectors in Costa Rica, from healthcare and education to agriculture and tourism, by enabling faster speeds, lower latency, and greater network capacity.
The government’s commitment to this project reflects its vision of a digitally advanced Costa Rica, poised to compete on a global scale and harness the full potential of the digital economy.
For further information, visit ice.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is a Costa Rican state-owned utility company that provides telecommunications and electricity services throughout the country. Established in 1949, ICE has played a pivotal role in Costa Rica’s development, bringing electricity and communication technologies to even remote areas. Beyond its core services, ICE is also involved in initiatives promoting sustainable development and technological innovation. The company is committed to modernizing its infrastructure and expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of Costa Rican citizens and businesses.
For further information, visit cgr.go.cr
About Contraloría General de la República (CGR):
The Contraloría General de la República (CGR) is the supreme audit institution of Costa Rica. It is an independent body responsible for overseeing the use of public funds and ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations. The CGR audits government agencies, municipalities, and other public entities, investigating potential irregularities and promoting best practices in public administration. Its decisions play a vital role in ensuring the proper and efficient use of public resources in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to empowering society is evident in its proactive efforts to demystify the law, making legal knowledge readily available and fostering a more informed and just Costa Rica.
