Portugal’s telecommunications regulator Anacom has opened a public consultation on a draft decision to extend the deadline for Nowo to deploy its 5G network until the end of 2025, giving the operator roughly another year to launch services. Nowo had requested in April a postponement of its 5G rollout obligations due to potential changes in its ownership structure, when Vodafone was planning a takeover of the company.
Anacom has determined that granting this extension would not negatively impact competition, consumer interests, or spectrum efficiency. The regulator believes that extending the deadline will allow Nowo to protect its investments and ensure the successful development of its network, ultimately benefiting consumers.
Masmovil shareholder Llorca acquired Nowo in 2019, ahead of buying spectrum in the 5G auction. The proposed sale to Vodafone was first agreed in October 2022 but has since been scrapped following opposition from Portugal’s competition authority. A public consultation on Anacom’s decision is open until 12 September, allowing interested parties to submit their feedback.
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