Roadmap for deployment of 5G networks and broadband infrastructure development

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile network technology represents one of the most important segments of the overall digital transformation of society based on the concept of Industry 4.0.

Aware of the importance of the entire digitalization process, the Ministry of Economic Development, in cooperation with the Agency for Electronic Communications and Postal Services (EKIP), prepared a Roadmap for deployment of 5G networks, which was adopted by the Cabinet at yesterday's session. 

The purpose of this document is to encourage the implementation of necessary activities for the introduction of 5G networks until the end of 2022, by which time a national 5G strategy is expected to be adopted, which will define further activities for 5G networks in Montenegro.

The Roadmap for deployment of 5G networks is also an important segment of the Memorandum of Understanding on 5G Roadmap for Digital Transformation in the Western Balkans Region.

The importance of 5G networks for the overall development of the economy and society has been recognised by all developed countries, so that the coordinated deployment of 5G networks in many countries has become part of the strategy of overall social and economic development.

Measures and policy reforms envisaged in the forthcoming period by the Roadmap relate to harmonisation of national legislation for electronic communications with the EU legislation; ensuring 5G pioneer bands for implementation of 5G networks on the entire territory of Montenegro; implementation of pilot projects in order to enable testing of 5G technology; removing administrative barriers in the field of construction of telecommunication infrastructure and installation of elements of broadband networks and raising awareness of the benefits of introducing 5G networks.

In addition, the development of digital infrastructure in the Western Balkans is the focus of the European Union's economic investment plan for the region. Therefore, the EU, in cooperation with the European Investment Bank (EIB), financed a project to improve the broadband infrastructure development in Montenegro, worth 550,000 euros, with the aim of improving the coverage with fixed broadband infrastructure.

The project assessed the current situation in Montenegro and the plans of telecommunications operators to install infrastructure, based on which a Feasibility Study and cost-benefit analysis for the development of regional broadband infrastructure in Montenegro was conducted, including Market models and Procurement strategy plan.

The implementation of these activities provides universal access to digital goods and services, exploiting the potential of the digital economy, as well as the use of e-government services by all citizens and businesses, thereby strengthening the competitiveness of society as a whole and achieving greater benefits for citizens and the economy of Montenegro.