Will Ecuador Tax Amateur Radio Out of Existence?

A proposed spectrum-use fee in Ecuador is treating hams the same as commerial broadcasters and is threatening to make the cost of amateur licenses out of reach for the majority of the country’s hams. There are fears that neighboring countries may follow suit. Our contributing editor in South America digs in for details.

MARTIN BUTERA

Ecuador’s telecommunications regulator, ARCOTEL, recently proposed a fee of USD $450 for the “use and exploitation of the radio spectrum” on all licensees, including radio amateurs. In addition, the agency is planning to assess a USD $22.50 for the “Value of the Rights for Granting and Renewal of Enabling Titles,” coming to a total of USD $472.50. While the fee covers a 10-year license term, it would need to be paid up front, something that is impossible for many of the approximately 700 licensed hams in Ecuador, as the country is currently in the midst of one of its toughest economic crises of recent years. There is also concern that other nearby countries may follow Ecuador’s lead and impose similar fees. To learn more about this topic, Contributing Editor At-Large…

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CQ Amateur Radio (Digital) - 1 Issue, June 2023

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