The Mexican Government published a Decree amending the Reglamento Interior de la Agencia de Transformación Digital y Telecomunicaciones (ATDT). The reform strengthens ATDT’s mandate, establishes a new Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT), and sets ambitious goals for universal connectivity and satellite continuity. It also gives ATDT a central role in regulatory simplification under the forthcoming Ley Nacional para Eliminar Trámites Burocráticos.
Why it matters
The Decree represents a structural reset in Mexico’s communications governance. Policy powers are consolidated within ATDT, the shape of the CRT -a new regulator- is defined, and universal access and digital transformation are elevated to federal priorities. Industry stakeholders will need to adapt to new planning requirements, oversight mechanisms, and faster timelines for connectivity programmes.
Key changes
- Creation of CRT: as expected, it will be a deconcentrated body with technical and operational autonomy. The CRT will become the main regulatory authority once its Plenary is integrated under the new telecommunications law.
- Policy concentration in ATDT: ATDT is tasked with leading federal telecoms, broadcasting and satellite policy, including infrastructure deployment for state‑provided services.
- National Connectivity Plan: ATDT must issue and coordinate a plan for Internet access, with annual targets for connecting public sites until universal coverage is achieved.
- Spectrum Programme: Jointly with CRT, ATDT will develop a National Spectrum Programme to expand coverage and promote efficient use of the scarce resource.
- Satellite policy: ATDT will oversee state satellite capacity, ensure continuity of services, and design the federal satellite policy. Resources from the Mexsat Directorate will be transferred to PROMTEL, including responsibilities as INMARSAT accounting authority.
- Regulatory simplification: ATDT will implement the new law to eliminate bureaucratic procedures, issue binding recommendations to simplify regulations, promote digital one‑stop windows, and certify compliance.
- Cybersecurity and ICT governance: ATDT will set federal protocols for information and telecoms security, authorise ICT procurement and software development, and expand international cooperation on cybersecurity.
Timelines
Within this context, there are key developments happening this year:.
- The CRT’s full functions depend on the integration of its Pleno following the adoption of the new telecommunications and broadcasting law.
- Within 30 business days, ATDT must coordinate with authorities on Mexsat concessions, assignments and permits.
- Within 90 business days, relevant regulations must be harmonised with the new framework.
Implications
Telecommunications operators, digital platforms, and service providers will face obligations linked to the Connectivity Plan and Spectrum Programme. They should prepare for tighter oversight of deployment approvals and continuity obligations in the event of licence revocation or market exit.
Satellite operators and users will see a clearer federal policy lead. The emphasis on continuity for security and social purposes could generate opportunities in capacity leasing, infrastructure, and public‑sector applications. The PROMTEL transfer may alter contracting and billing processes.
Public sector entities will need to comply with binding simplification directives, adopt digital single windows, and keep information on the federal portal up to date. Similarly, by adding clarity to ATDT’s role within the regulatory ecosystem, the Mexican authorities keep compliance with Article 18 of the USMCA.
Our view
The reform signals Mexico’s intention to use digital transformation as both a regulatory and policy lever. The definition of the specific functions of CRT and concentration of policy powers in ATDT provide an opportunity to reset the governance model for telecoms and digital services. However, the transition will demand careful coordination between federal entities, operators, and vendors to avoid disruption. These measures reflect a more interventionist approach to regulatory simplification and market regulation.
Contact us
Stay ahead of the uncertainty
As the leading tech policy firm, Access Partnership can guide you through this transformative period. Our expertise in regulatory advocacy and market strategies ensures that your organisation is prepared to adapt to these transformations.
To learn how your organisation can navigate the implications of Mexico’s regulatory reforms and leverage opportunities in this evolving landscape, please contact Geusseppe Gonzalez at [email protected] and Fernando Borjón at [email protected].
