Hong Kong’s Office of Communications Authority (OFCA) announced that it will allocate 1,200 MHz of spectrum in the 26 GHz and 28 GHz bands in the third quarter of this year to enhance the city’s 5G networks. The spectrum will be distributed among four mobile network operators (MNOs): China Mobile Hong Kong (CMHK), Hong Kong Telecom (HKT), Hutchison Telephone Company Limited (HTCL), and SmarTone Mobile Communications (SmarTone).
In a statement released, OFCA confirmed the completion of the second round of mmWave spectrum assignments. The review of applications submitted by the four MNOs approximately two months ago has been finalized. HTCL, which currently lacks spectrum in the 26 GHz/28 GHz bands, will receive 600 MHz, while CMHK, HKT, and SmarTone will each receive an additional 200 MHz, supplementing the 400 MHz they were allocated in 2019. This adjustment ensures each MNO will have 600 MHz of spectrum, creating a balanced competitive environment.
Spectrum Allocation at No Cost
Like the initial spectrum allocation in these bands, the latest batch is being provided free of charge. OFCA has only allocated half of the available 2,500 MHz in the 26 GHz/28 GHz frequencies, leaving a significant portion unallocated.
“The spectrum assignment will enable the MNOs to further expand their 5G networks and enhance capacity, particularly in high-traffic areas. This aims to meet public expectations for high-speed, reliable mobile services and to promote the development of various innovative applications, thereby fostering the growth of Hong Kong’s smart economy,” OFCA stated in a press release.
Upcoming Spectrum Auction
A spectrum auction in Hong Kong is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024. OFCA announced that the 850 MHz/900 MHz and the 2.3 GHz bands, along with the newly introduced 6 GHz/7 GHz bands, will be available for bidding. A total of 510 MHz of spectrum for 5G mobile services will be on offer to interested parties.
