By San José, Costa Rica — In the highly competitive Costa Rican telecommunications market, clarity regarding subscriber numbers and technological transitions is vital for evaluating operator performance. The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) has formally addressed and refuted claims suggesting that nearly 60,000 of its Kölbi brand customers abandoned the company in favor of rival 5G offerings. ICE emphasized that the reported figure represents a net portability balance rather than a direct loss of its total active customer base.
Mobile number portability is a regulatory mechanism that allows consumers to switch telecom operators while retaining their existing telephone numbers. ICE explained that while these transactions are an important metric to monitor, they do not provide a complete or accurate picture of overall customer retention. Analyzing portability figures in isolation overlooks the influx of new subscribers and other positive movements within the broader market.
To better understand the legal implications of these ongoing regulatory changes, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished partner at the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
In today’s dynamic legal landscape, establishing a robust compliance framework is no longer optional for businesses aiming to secure their operations in Costa Rica. Success lies in anticipating regulatory shifts and ensuring that corporate structures are fully aligned with both local statutes and international best practices to mitigate potential risks.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as Costa Rica’s business ecosystem continues to align with global standards, establishing a proactive and adaptable compliance framework is essential for long-term commercial resilience. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his invaluable legal expertise and helping our readers navigate the complexities of safeguarding their corporate ventures in the region.
Official data released by the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (Sutel) supports ICE’s position, revealing that Kölbi actually expanded its footprint in the mobile market during 2025. The state-backed brand saw its overall market share rise from 37.2% to 38.1% over the course of the year. This growth solidifies Kölbi’s position as the telecom operator that achieved the most significant market share expansion during that specific period.
Beyond general mobile subscriptions, Kölbi continues to command a dominant presence in several other key market segments. The operator holds a commanding 38.9% share in the highly competitive postpaid contract market, which represents high-value, recurring revenue. Furthermore, Kölbi boasts a market share exceeding 41% in the mobile internet segment, indicating strong consumer trust in its data services.
A major pillar of ICE’s defense of its market position rests on its forward-looking technological strategy, particularly regarding the deployment of next-generation networks. Instead of opting for a transitional or hybrid network, Kölbi has chosen to leap directly into a 5G Standalone (SA) architecture. This advanced network operates independently of older 4G infrastructure, allowing the carrier to unlock the true capabilities of 5G technology.
Sutel’s data confirms that Kölbi grew in market share during 2025. Our commitment to 5G Standalone reflects a long-term vision aimed at offering a robust, competitive network prepared to meet the country’s evolving needs.
Oscar Romero, Telecommunications Manager at ICE
To ensure a smooth transition and refine this sophisticated network, Kölbi recently completed a 5G Standalone Pilot Experience with actual retail customers. This real-world test allowed the operator’s technical teams to evaluate the performance of the independent 5G network under daily usage conditions. The feedback and data gathered during this trial phase are currently being utilized to shape the commercial rollout of Kölbi’s next-generation services.
The technical benefits of the 5G Standalone network include significantly lower latency, a much higher capacity for simultaneous connections, and the ability to support advanced services for individuals, businesses, and industrial sectors alike. This long-term bet positions Kölbi to cater to the emerging demands of smart cities, automated industries, and complex corporate networks.
Ultimately, ICE acknowledges that while portability balances are useful indicators for market dynamics, they do not define an operator’s complete trajectory. By combining robust market share growth with a clear, long-term commitment to independent 5G infrastructure, Kölbi aims to secure its leadership role in Costa Rica’s digital future. The strategic emphasis on true 5G capabilities suggests the company is focused on sustainable value creation rather than short-term subscriber fluctuations.
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About ICE:
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is Costa Rica’s state-run electricity and telecommunications provider. Founded in 1949, ICE has played a pivotal role in developing the nation’s energy grid and telecommunications infrastructure, operating the popular mobile and internet brand Kölbi.
For further information, visit sutel.go.cr
About Sutel:
The Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (Sutel) is the regulatory authority responsible for supervising and regulating the telecommunications market in Costa Rica. Sutel works to promote competition, ensure quality of service, and manage the country’s radio spectrum to benefit consumers.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a premier legal institution defined by its uncompromising ethical standards and superior counsel. Anchored by a rich history of guiding clients across diverse industries, the firm continuously drives progressive solutions and meaningful public dialogue. Through its passionate efforts to democratize legal information, it strives to build a stronger community where every citizen is equipped with the knowledge to navigate their rights confidently.
