The Regulatory Body for Electronic Communications and Postal Services (RATEL) announced the start of a public bidding process for the issuance of up to three individual licenses to operate 5G networks.
Aleksandar Mastilović, an international telecommunications and smart technologies expert and consultant to the Serbian Chamber of Commerce’s Center for Digital Transformation, explained to Biznis.rs that the licenses will allow existing and potentially new telecom operators to begin building 5G infrastructure according to current regulations. This will enable them to enhance the quality of existing networks and launch new services connected exclusively to the fifth generation of mobile networks.
Unlike previous generations primarily focused on traditional mobile telephony and voice services, 5G is designed to support a broader range of applications beyond internet access and voice calls. “The fifth generation allows us to deploy massive sensor networks, paving the way for advanced ‘smart’ applications,” Mastilović said. These include smart cities, smart factories, and support for autonomous vehicles—technologies that may seem futuristic today but will become possible with 5G infrastructure.
Mastilović estimates that the core deployment of 5G could be completed by June next year, noting that the project is far more complex than previous network rollouts. A key feature of 5G is the use of microcells—small base stations similar to home Wi-Fi routers—that need to be installed every few hundred meters to ensure high-speed coverage equivalent to optical fiber. Given the urban environment, where buildings can obstruct signals at very high frequencies, widespread microcell installation will take several years.
The main macro base stations can be upgraded or replaced within a reasonable timeframe. Mastilović highlighted that the rollout schedule will likely align with the upcoming EXPO 2027 exhibition, aiming for Serbia to showcase a fully operational 5G network, particularly in Belgrade.
The issued licenses will be valid until March 5, 2047, with no option for extension. Mastilović noted that long-term licenses are standard practice. Since 6G technology is expected to emerge well before the licenses expire, these permits will ensure service continuity without regulatory disruption.
He also mentioned that future regulatory practices might shift towards general authorizations for specific radio frequency bands rather than technology-specific licenses. This would allow operators greater commercial freedom in transitioning from 4G to 5G, and later to 6G, without regulatory pressure.
The ordinance setting minimum conditions for issuing 5G licenses came into effect on May 24.
