Lithuanian telecoms watchdog the Communications Regulatory Authority (Rysiu Reguliavimo Tarnyba, RRT) has announced the completion of its auction of 5G mobile spectrum in the 3.5GHz band. The tender comprised the sale of three 100MHz blocks of spectrum in the 3400MHz-3700MHz range, with initial prices set at EUR3 million (USD3.1 million) per lot. Telia Lietuva was the highest bidder, paying EUR7 million for one block, while the two other incumbent mobile operators Tele2 and Bite Lithuania each paid EUR3 million for 100MHz.

Spectrum licences are valid for an initial period of 20 years. Winning bidders are subject to certain rollout and service provision obligations, including requirements to: launch commercial 5G services in at least one city from 2023; deploy 5G networks in major cities from 2024; and extend 5G coverage to all towns and compact built-up areas by 2030. An additional 5G spectrum auction comprising frequencies in the 700MHz band, which kicked off in May, is still ongoing.