Introduction to the Alianza Latinoamericana de Telecomunicaciones (LAT+)
The Alianza Latinoamericana de Telecomunicaciones (LAT+) is a coalition of associations, cooperatives, and independent operators dedicated to promoting equitable digital connectivity and services in Latin America. They advocate for technology-neutral public policies, foster innovation, and support evidence-based regulation.
LAT+ Presents Alternative Connectivity Policies to ATDT
LAT+ has proposed a series of connectivity policy alternatives to the Agency for Digital Transformation (ATDT) and the Promoter of Telecommunications Investments Organization (Promtel) to expand internet coverage in rural and hard-to-reach areas of Mexico.
Key Proposals by LAT+
Development of a Spatial Data Infrastructure (IDE)
LAT+ suggests prioritizing the creation of a Spatial Data Infrastructure (IDE) for telecommunications, which would serve as a national technological platform to collect, organize, and update geographical and statistical information about coverage and infrastructure.
- The IDE would accurately identify areas without internet service, prioritize interventions in rural, indigenous, and marginalized communities, and guide resources more effectively towards programs like the Social Coverage Program (PCS) and the National Digital Agenda (ADN).
- LAT+ recommends establishing a clear governance model with regulated access to ensure data security while facilitating participation from strategic actors like community operators and small ISPs.
- The IDE would strengthen coordination between the public and private sectors, accelerate digital divide reduction, and ensure equitable internet access for all Mexicans.
Reasignment of PCS Resources
LAT+ proposes reallocating resources from the PCS, currently managed by the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT), to prioritize projects of last-mile operation by community operators and local ISPs.
- This measure is crucial given the official diagnosis identifying 51,632 locations without internet coverage and 4,510 Priority Attention Zones (ZAP) in the PCS 2023-2024.
- Directing resources to these actors would accelerate connectivity in the most lagging territories, as community operators and small ISPs have greater adaptability, proximity, and local context knowledge to deliver quality services where large operators lack interest or commercial viability.
- Reallocating these funds would not only close the digital divide in rural, indigenous, and marginalized communities but also reinforce territorial equity and social inclusion, aligning with the constitutional mandate to ensure access to information and communication technologies.
Explicit Recognition of Community Operators and Local ISPs
LAT+ recommends explicitly acknowledging community operators and Local Network Operators within the ADN and PCS frameworks.
- These actors play a significant role in reaching underserved areas where large commercial operators have limited or no presence due to low profitability or challenging operating conditions.
- Formal recognition in the national policy would align regulatory instruments with on-the-ground realities, ensuring resources, technical assistance, and institutional support are directed not only to large operators but also to those effectively serving rural, indigenous, and marginalized communities.
- This recognition would provide legitimacy, visibility, and access to essential mechanisms like financing, training, and public-private cooperation for sustainability and expansion.
Connectivity for Inclusion Program
LAT+ proposes that Mexico’s government strengthen digital inclusion through a voluntary incentive scheme instead of mandatory differential wholesale tariffs.
- Under this model, Mobile Network Operators (ORM) would be encouraged to offer preferential wholesale access conditions for rural connectivity projects, prioritizing cooperation and mutual benefit.
- This approach preserves legal security, maintains investor confidence, and avoids discouraging infrastructure expansion in the country.
Subsidies for Equipment and Platforms
LAT+ emphasizes the importance of implementing subsidies for SIM cards, basic terminals, and management platforms through the PCS to close the connectivity gap in Mexico’s smallest and least-served communities.
- Small towns with fewer than 5,000 residents are often excluded from investment by large operators due to low profitability, leaving residents without reliable telecommunications.
- Supporting local OMV and network operators near or within these zones would facilitate affordable connectivity, directly improving access to education, healthcare, public services, and digital economic opportunities like e-commerce and digital jobs.
Training and Sustainability Program
Designing an ATDT-supervised Connectivity for Inclusion Program would be a transformative step to strengthen Mexico’s digital ecosystem.
- Structured and certified training in network operation, customer service, cybersecurity, and billing would enhance service quality and reliability while empowering communities to manage their telecommunications infrastructure effectively.
- This investment in human capital directly translates to increased digital inclusion, reduced external dependence, and long-term sustainability of local initiatives.
“Mexico’s economic and social development requires a modern, equitable approach that encourages connectivity and innovation without distorting the market or unduly burdening citizens.”
