Costa Rica’s journey towards implementing the 5G network is ongoing, a crucial foundation for industries that demand high-speed and stable connections. However, delays in 5G’s deployment are restricting the nation’s technological progress in advanced fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and rapid industrial process control.
The Essence of 5G
5G, the fifth iteration of wireless cellular communications, boasts higher download and upload speeds, enhanced connectivity, and improved capacities compared to its predecessor, 4G.
Vanessa Gibson, Director of Investment Climate at the Costa Rican Coalition of Development Initiatives (Cinde), emphasized 5G’s pivotal role. This advanced network acts as a linchpin for deploying sophisticated technologies across various sectors.
Gibson elaborated that this encompasses not just the present-day development of platforms, tools, and devices, but also the deployment of high information processing technologies like data analytics, cloud computing, AI, machine learning, and robotics.
Significance in Various Sectors
Eduardo Escalante, Director of Telecommunications and Electrical Engineering at Universidad Fidélitas, mentioned that 5G would pave the way for advanced operations in smart buildings, factories, and cities. However, he warned that Costa Rica’s tardiness in adopting this technology relative to other nations puts its productive sector at a competitive disadvantage.
“Optimizing production and service processes heavily relies on these new technological advances. Many Latin American countries are weaving these strategies into their 5G plans, translating many of their aspirations into action,” he added.
5G’s Deployment Status in Costa Rica
While Costa Rica is gearing towards rolling out 5G, it’s not yet a reality. The spectrum return process, deemed fundamental for 5G’s development, is still pending. Costa Rica’s Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt) is currently scrutinizing if ICE, the national telecommunications company, holds any frequencies necessary for 5G deployment.
The aforementioned spectrum auctioning process started 17 months ago. Recently, on July 5th, the Telecommunications Superintendency (Sutel) sought public consultation on the draft establishing the contest procedure for the 5G spectrum.
Future Potential with 5G
Gibson highlighted that 5G’s implementation would bolster Costa Rica’s tech and education clusters, create jobs, and benefit all economic sectors. Notably, it is anticipated to attract foreign direct investments and innovation. “A robust 5G service network would significantly shape the nation and the region’s tech future,” she remarked.
According to a study by PwC, the 5G network will dramatically enhance efficiency and productivity, projecting a global GDP boost of $1.3 trillion by 2030.
Escalante emphasized the transformative impact of 5G on various sectors. Technologies like robotics, AI, and the Internet of Things require high-speed networks that 5G can offer.
Challenges Ahead
While 5G’s rollout is imminent in Costa Rica, several challenges extend beyond its initiation. Escalante pointed to the necessity for creating conducive conditions for its adoption, involving government entities, the private sector, and the public. This includes cooperation agreements for training individuals and professionals to harness the full potential of this technology.
Gibson also spoke about bridging the nation’s digital divide, particularly outside the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). An inclusive, people-centric approach is needed to achieve meaningful connectivity.
