On 9 April, Brazil’s National Telecommunications Authority (Anatel) released a public consultation to gather contributions and insights about the role connectivity has over the potential of emerging technologies such as AI. Contributions can be sent until 9 June 2024 through Anatel’s participation platform.
The announcement, made by Executive Superintendent Abraão Balbino, highlights the interest from Brazilian authorities regarding assessing possible regulatory needs for telecommunications and connectivity stakeholders considering the possible benefits the use of AI can bring to the operations and provision of services. In addition, the consultation considers current 5G development in the country, Anatel’s vision of AI, and the need to have a collective vision for the development of new regulation pertaining to AI and connectivity.
Along with the consultation, during the launch event “AI and the future of connectivity: a collective vision”, the communications body shared insights about the potential use cases that could thrive in the South American giant, should connectivity and AI successfully work together. This includes promoting social and economic welfare, for instance, in education, telemedicine, manufacturing, and entertainment. Likewise, some of the key messages from attendees converged into the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the unknown risks derived from it.
What it means for LATAM
Brazil is traditionally regarded as one of the leading countries in terms of connectivity and technological development. On this occasion, Anatel has taken a leading role in the region by addressing regulatory needs that involve AI and connectivity, a conversation uncommon in the region as most jurisdictions have insisted on regulating AI in general, without a deeper dive into industry-specific concerns. As a result, it is likely that additional studies, or a more profound position is taken by the Brazilian authorities once the consultation is closed. It is likely that the outcome of this consultation will set an example for countries such as Chile, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Colombia, where some regulatory conversations have been held recently, but none within the connectivity realm.
Access Partnership follows regulatory and policy developments in digital tech in Latin America and around the world. If you would like more information on digital policy, connectivity, AI, or require support in responding to the public consultation, please contact Geusseppe Gonzalez at [email protected].
