Panama’s National Public Services Authority (Autoridad Nacional de los Servicios Públicos – ASEP) has opened Public Consultation No. 012-26 concerning proposed modifications to the country’s National Frequency Allocation Plan (Plan Nacional de Atribución de Frecuencias – PNAF).
The Panama PNAF update addresses several areas of spectrum management, including the lower 6 GHz band, satellite Direct-to-Cell communications, Fixed Wireless Access, and alignment with the International Telecommunication Union’s 2024 Radio Regulations. ASEP explains that the PNAF must evolve with technological developments and international spectrum-management requirements. Document – Public Consultation
Written comments are accepted from September 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. until October 28, 2026, at 3:30 p.m.
Panama PNAF Update Covers the Lower 6 GHz Band
One of the main proposals would designate the lower portion of the 6 GHz band, from 5.925 to 6.425 GHz, for Unlicensed or Free Use. Document – Public Consultation
According to ASEP, the proposed change aims to support the development of new wireless technologies while establishing conditions for coexistence with services that already operate in the band. The consultation addresses applications for both indoor and outdoor environments.
This proposed spectrum designation is particularly relevant to the continued development of Wi-Fi technologies and other unlicensed wireless applications. However, the measure remains subject to the public consultation process and should not yet be treated as a final regulatory change.
Direct-to-Cell Satellite Communications
ASEP also proposes incorporating new provisions into Article 8.5 of the PNAF for Mobile Satellite Service operations, including Direct-to-Cell communications.
The consultation reflects the development of satellite systems capable of connecting directly with mobile terminals. ASEP identifies both Direct-to-Device and Direct-to-Cell technologies as part of the technological developments that support the need to review the existing PNAF. Document – Public Consultation
The proposal therefore seeks to establish a regulatory framework for using Mobile Satellite Service spectrum for this type of connectivity while supporting coexistence with existing terrestrial services.
Fixed Wireless Access in the Canal Area
Another proposed amendment affects Article 22, which covers commercial Fixed Wireless Access systems.
Specifically, ASEP proposes modifying provisions related to the geographic area identified as the Canal Area. Document – Public Consultation
ASEP explains that the update is intended to align the PNAF’s geographic definition with the applicable national legal framework and the operational requirements of the Panama Canal Authority. Document – Public Consultation
Alignment With ITU RR-2024
Finally, ASEP proposes updating the National Frequency Allocation Table under Article 14.8 to reflect the ITU Radio Regulations RR-2024. Document – Public Consultation
This part of the proposal seeks to maintain consistency between Panama’s national spectrum framework and international frequency-allocation provisions. ASEP states that updating the PNAF supports efficient spectrum management and facilitates frequency assignments according to the applicable telecommunications services. Document – Public Consultation
Consultation Deadline and Submission Process
Stakeholders may submit written comments until 3:30 p.m. on October 28, 2026.
Comments may be submitted electronically to modificacionpnaf@asep.gob.pa or physically through ASEP’s Unidad de Atención al Concesionario at its National Directorate of Telecommunications.
The consultation documents and supporting technical information are also available through ASEP’s Telecommunications Public Consultations section.
Because the consultation remains open, the proposals described above should be considered proposed modifications rather than final or effective regulatory requirements.
Organizations monitoring wireless technologies, spectrum policy, and telecommunications requirements in Panama can follow developments through Entirety’s Regulatory Intelligence Service.
Impact Assessment
- Type Approval & Market Access?
No -
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance?
No -
Spectrum Management?
Yes -
Technical Standars?
No
