The Agency for Electronic Communications (AEC) of North Macedonia has announced a public tender for spectrum allocations in the 700 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 3.5 GHz bands. This initiative supports the national 5G deployment roadmap and aims to enhance mobile coverage by introducing new players to the telecom market.
Who Can Apply
To promote fair competition and prevent market dominance, the AEC has restricted this tender exclusively to new entrants. Established operators A1 Macedonia and Makedonski Telekom are not eligible to participate. This approach is intended to diversify the telecom landscape and boost investments, particularly in underdeveloped areas.
Spectrum on Offer
The tender includes one license per band, each with nationwide coverage and valid for up to 12 years:
- 700 MHz: 2×10 MHz (703–713 / 758–768 MHz)
- 1800 MHz: 2×10 MHz (1775–1785 / 1870–1880 MHz)
- 3.5 GHz (3.x GHz): 100 MHz (3500–3600 MHz)
All licenses are technology-neutral, allowing deployment of any compliant mobile technology, including 5G.
License Terms & Coverage Requirements
Winning bidders must fulfill phased coverage milestones:
- By end of 2026: Provide 5G coverage in at least one city
- By end of 2028: Ensure uninterrupted 5G along major transport routes
- By end of 2030: All cities must have 5G coverage
- By end of 2032: Every citizen must have access to 5G with at least 100 Mbps download speed
Operators are required to utilize the allocated spectrum within 12 months of license issuance. They must also offer access to passive infrastructure upon reasonable request.
Technical Guidelines
For the 3.5 GHz band, operators must adopt the “Frame A (DDDSU)” synchronization model in line with ECC REC(20)03. Any deviation must be non-disruptive to adjacent users. Time synchronization should align with GNSS protocols, as referenced in ECC Reports 216 and 296.
License Validity & Fees
The license durations are set to match existing frequency allocations:
- 700 MHz (A1) – Expires in 2037
- 1800 MHz (B1) – Expires in 2033
- 3.5 GHz (C1) – Expires in 2037
Applicants must pay a one-time spectrum fee and annual usage charges. The minimum one-time fees are:
- €2,320,000 for 700 MHz
- €210,000 for 1800 MHz
- €4,200,000 for 3.5 GHz
These rates are based on previous auctions and European benchmarks, adjusted for local economic conditions.
Application Process
Eligible applicants—those not currently holding a telecom license or operating network infrastructure in North Macedonia—must submit an expression of interest to the AEC by May 16, 2025. Submissions must be made to the AEC’s official address in Skopje.
Following submission, a competitive bidding round will determine the final licensees. Failure to meet license obligations, such as unused spectrum within one year, may result in revocation as per Article 147 of the Law on Electronic Communications.
