ANATEL

Anatel, short for Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações, is the Brazilian federal regulatory agency responsible for regulation of telecommunication services and the management of radio-frequency spectrum. Created in 1997 by law to oversee the liberalization of the Brazilian telecom sector, it operates as an autonomous public agency linked to the federal government and aims to promote competition, protect consumers, and ensure universal access to services such as fixed and mobile telephony, broadband, and satellite communications.

The agency’s core functions include issuing licenses and concessions for telecom operators, allocating and managing spectrum, setting technical and quality standards, and authorizing telecommunications equipment (homologação) for sale in Brazil. It monitors service quality, resolves disputes between providers and subscribers, and enforces regulatory compliance through penalties. Anatel also oversees universal service obligations and runs consumer protection programs, while collecting market data and statistics to inform policy.

Organization and governance structure: Anatel is governed by a board of commissioners, including a President and Vice-President, appointed by the President of Brazil and approved by the Senate, with fixed terms. It is funded through the federal budget and regulatory penalties and operates under the general supervision of the executive branch. The agency cooperates with other national authorities and participates in international regulatory and standardization activities, including involvement with the ITU and regional regulatory bodies.

Impact: Anatel’s regulatory actions shape the Brazilian telecom market by guiding spectrum auctions (including 4G and 5G), establishing market access rules, handling consumer complaints, and approving equipment. Its work seeks to balance investment incentives with consumer protection and universal service objectives.