Somphop Purivigraipong, Commissioner of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), revealed that the NBTC has prepared to auction the frequency bands due to expire in 2027, namely the 2100 MHz band, sized at 2×45 MHz, along with residual frequencies from previous auctions: 850 MHz, 1500 MHz, and 1800 MHz. Additionally, NBTC is considering the appropriate bandwidth in the 3500 MHz band, with plans to allocate it between 4Q26 and 1Q27.
The NBTC has already begun preparations for the upcoming frequency auction by updating the spectrum roadmap and drafting regulations for the allocation of the 2100 MHz, 3500 MHz bands, as well as other related bands, to ensure ongoing Internet usage and enhance the speed efficiency from 5G to 5.5G technology.
Available data shows the total number of Internet users is projected to grow from 60.94 million in 2025 to 62.11 million in 2026, an average growth rate of 0.64% per year. Although user numbers are not rising sharply, consumer data usage continues to expand—fixed Internet grows at an annual average of 7.29%, while domestic mobile Internet grows at 11.06% per year—demonstrating the country’s sustained demand for digital networks and services.
Somphop stated that the frequency that needs to be auctioned in advance, and is currently in use by mobile operators in the 2100 MHz (FDD) band, belongs to Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (SET: ADVANC) and True Corporation Public Company Limited (SET: TRUE), with licenses expiring in 2027.
While interest from private entities largely depend on whether continued investment in existing equipment is necessary or not, he believed that private operators will likely seek frequency band expansions, as their available spectrum will decrease while usage volume continues to rise.
The frequencies ready for allocation and remaining from previous auctions include the 850 MHz band (2×10 MHz), 1500 MHz (35 MHz), 1800 MHz (2×35 MHz), 2100 MHz (TDD) (15 MHz), and 2600 MHz (100 MHz). The 1500 MHz band is expected to be particularly attractive as it can be used to increase network capacity and enhance download coverage, supporting increased data usage in both dense urban and rural areas. Combining the 1500 MHz band with other frequencies enables users to enjoy faster and more stable Internet, even in crowded environments and during peak times.
Regarding the 3300-3700 MHz band (400 MHz), this will be partially auctioned for existing mobile operators and partially for new entrants to facilitate industrial usage. This band is highly anticipated by private operators, who seek a clear auction plan.
Meanwhile, frequencies currently under study include the 600 MHz band (2×40 MHz), which is currently used for digital TV and will expire in 2029. NBTC must review the broadcasting road map before making a decision, and if auctioned, only 20 MHz will be released so as not to impact the digital TV frequency when that license ends in 2029.
