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Using spectrum set-asides to address distributional objectives: Lessons from Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States

journal contribution
posted on 2025-06-03, 04:41 authored by Bronwyn HowellBronwyn Howell, PH Potgieter
This paper critically examines the effectiveness of spectrum set-asides as a policy tool to address distributional objectives in telecommunications across four diverse national contexts: Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States. Spectrum allocation is a crucial factor for the provision of telecommunications services and by extension, for citizens’ participation in the digital economy. While economic theory supports auction-based allocations to maximise market efficiency, set-asides aim to facilitate access for disadvantaged groups or to stimulate competition. This study employs case studies from the selected countries to evaluate the impact of these set-asides on market efficiency, competition, and economic development. In Canada, set-asides intended to encourage new market entrants have led to higher spectrum costs and inefficiencies due to speculative behaviour. In New Zealand, allocations to the indigenous Māori population have raised concerns over long-term sector efficiency and capital accessibility. South Africa's policy mandates spectrum allocations to entities with significant ownership by historically disadvantaged persons, with mixed outcomes on market dynamics and social equity. Meanwhile, the United States’ approach includes grants rather than direct spectrum set-asides, offering a potentially less distortive model. The findings suggest that while set-asides can support social objectives, they often introduce inefficiencies and fail to achieve the desired economic outcomes. The paper concludes by discussing the implications for future spectrum policy, advocating for careful consideration of the trade-offs between equity and efficiency in spectrum management.

History

Preferred citation

Howell, B. E. & Potgieter, P. H. (2025). Using spectrum set-asides to address distributional objectives: Lessons from Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Telecommunications Policy, 49(5), 102957-102957. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.telpol.2025.102957

Journal title

Telecommunications Policy

Volume

49

Issue

5

Publication date

2025-06-01

Pagination

102957-102957

Publisher

Elsevier BV

Publication status

Accepted

ISSN

0308-5961

Article number

102957

Language

en

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