Government of Canada takes steps to improve competition and quality of wireless services

Federal auction policies are focused on creating better wireless service and value for the middle class

OTTAWA, May 18, 2018 /CNW/ - Canadians are demanding world-class high-speed mobile broadband to engage in social media, participate in the digital economy and access other important online services. That is why the Government of Canada is continually looking at how to best allocate wireless spectrum. Spectrum is the airwaves on which wireless connectivity is provided. Making good spectrum decisions helps pave the way for stronger competition, high-quality networks and lower prices for Canadians.

Today, the Government of Canada announced the results for the 2018 spectrum auction. Approximately 94 percent of the allocated spectrum licences went to regional providers and small companies, which will allow them to offer higher quality services to Canadians. In total, six providers obtained spectrum: Ecotel, Cogeco, Xplornet, Iris, Freedom and TELUS. This is further evidence of continuing support for a competitive wireless market, leading to better quality services and lower prices for Canadians.

The Government will continue to support competition and investment in telecommunications so that Canadians continue to benefit from next-generation technologies and that Canada remains at the forefront of innovation.

Quote

"The 2018 spectrum auction will promote competition and equip providers across Canada with spectrum to improve the services they offer to Canadians. Our government is committed to the three elements of telecom service that matter most to Canadians: quality, coverage and price. And this is an important step in that direction."
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

Quick facts

• Approximately 94 percent of the allocated spectrum licences for the 2018 spectrum auction went to regional providers and small companies.
• Regions with strong competition are the least expensive wireless markets in Canada.
• Canada's networks rank second among G7 countries for average wireless connection speeds.
• 98 percent of Canadians have access to advanced wireless services.

Associated links

• Consultation on the Spectrum Outlook 2018 to 2022
• Minister Bains addresses the 2017 Canadian Telecom Summit
• 2017 Price Comparison Study of Telecommunications Services in Canada and Select Foreign Jurisdictions

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SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada