Synopsis
Chile’s telecom sector is one of the most developed in Latin America, with a state-of-the-art infrastructure and regulatory system. In July 2010, Chile became the first country in the world to pass a Network Neutrality Law aimed at ensuring free and equal access to the internet. Number portability, approved in August 2010, is scheduled for launch in late 2011 – mobile number portability first, then fixed number portability. Competition, investment, and innovation have been key factors in the development of the country’s telecommunications. Chile’s market-oriented economy and its openness to international investment have made it a popular target with foreign investors. With solid GDP growth and strong domestic demand predicted for 2011, telecom revenues are expected to continue posting double-digit growth rates. The fastest growing services will be fixed and mobile broadband. Smartphones sales are likely to escalate, driven by lower prices and intensive use of social networks. This report provides an overview of Chile’s telecom sector and regulatory environment, accompanied by statistical data, analyses, and outlook.
Key developments: Chile’s telecom sector grows by a record 22%; Chile adopts a Network Neutrality Law; Number Portability (NP) is scheduled for late 2011 but may be delayed to 2012; a public tender has been launched to select an NP database administrator.
Companies covered in this report include Movistar, Entel, Claro, and VTR.
