Spectrum Pricing September 2026
The September 2026 Spectrum Pricing Update provides a comprehensive overview of global spectrum auctions and assignments. The report focuses on key spectrum bands, including the C-band, millimetre wave and 700 MHz, noting varying prices driven by competition, licensing terms and economic contexts. As of the end of August, spectrum auctions have raised $4.8 billion in 2026, with large auctions in the United States, Indonesia and Pakistan.
The C-band remains critical for 5G deployment, though prices have been mostly falling. For example, auctions in Pakistan (March 2026) and Paraguay (August 2026) each achieved less than $0.0343/MHz/pop, the market average for C-band spectrum since 2021. Millimetre-wave spectrum has seen limited auction activity in 2026, with lower valuations, for example Japan achieved just $0.00788/MHz/pop. The 700 MHz band is highly valued for its potential to expand 5G coverage, averaging $0.162/MHz/pop in auctions since the start of 2022.
The report highlights a slowdown in spectrum auctions since 2022. GSA’s 5G Spectrum Auction Tracker monitors these developments; the database is available for Members and Associates.
© GSA 2026
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Spectrum Pricing September 2026
