Brazilian telecom operators are pursuing open 5G networks to retain their already-installed Huawei switching equipment. They oppose any restrictions on 5G network equipment vendors and advocate for a technical standard enabling interoperability among devices from multiple suppliers. Another proposal championed by operators is the adoption of Open RAN, which allows multi-vendor solutions across all layers and stages of the network. Japanese company NEC—one of the strongest global proponents of this model—has already extended credit lines in Brazil to operators interested in deploying Open RAN.
Other recent developments in Brazil:
(1) OECD Calls on Brazil to Accelerate Digital Transformation
The OECD states that Brazil must accelerate its digital transformation to enhance resilience and speed up recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. In its report, the organization highlights significant progress made by Brazil in improving internet access, digital security, and regulatory frameworks. However, Brazil lags behind in investment in digital innovation and in the digital skills level of its workforce. The OECD emphasizes the need for better coordination of digital transformation policies across ministries and government agencies, as well as increased resources to implement Brazil’s national digital transformation strategy. The report recommends a comprehensive reform of taxes, fees, and tariffs that constrain operators’ investment and innovation capacity; the upcoming 5G spectrum auction should ensure optimal network coverage and competitive conditions.
(2) ViaSat Becomes First Satellite Internet Provider to Cover All of Brazil
ViaSat announced it has become the first satellite internet service provider to achieve nationwide coverage across Brazil. ViaSat launched a new premium satellite internet plan called Viasat30Mega, offering speeds of up to 30 Mbps and up to 160 GB of monthly data. This plan joins the existing Viasat 10 Mega and Viasat 20 Mega plans—which deliver download speeds of up to 10 Mbps and 20 Mbps, respectively. All three plans include home Wi-Fi, unlimited chat and browsing, and free regional usage between 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
(3) Brazil’s 5G B2B Revenue to Reach USD 22.5 Billion by 2024
A study commissioned by the Movimento Digital Brasil (Digital Brazil Movement) and conducted by IDC shows that 5G will generate USD 22.5 billion in B2B revenue between 2020 and 2024—a compound annual growth rate of 179%. Driven by the 2021 5G spectrum auction, infrastructure investments by network operators and providers will reach USD 2.5 billion in 2021 and grow to USD 4 billion by 2025. By 2024, emerging technology markets—including IoT, cybersecurity, public cloud, big data, and data analytics—are projected to grow at an annual rate of 180%.
Last updated: 2026-03-08