Disappointed by TRAI recommendations on 5G spectrum; prices too high: COAI

These recommendations are "one step backwards than forward" towards building a digitally- connected India, COAI said in a statement

Picture used for representational purposes only. File | Photo Credit: K. K. Mustafah

Industry body Cellular Operators' Association of India (COAI) on Tuesday expressed deep disappointment over Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)'s recommendations on 5G and termed the spectrum pricing suggested by the regulator as "too high".

Given the recent reforms for telecom sector announced by the government, these recommendations are "one step backwards than forward" towards building a digitally connected India, COAI said in a statement.

The COAI is an apex industry body and its members include Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea.

In a statement, COAI said it is disappointed by TRAI recommendations on 5G spectrum bands.

The spectrum pricing recommended by TRAI is too high, it said.

"Throughout the consultation process, industry had presented extensive arguments based on global research and benchmarks, for significant reduction in spectrum prices.

"Industry recommended 90% lower price, and to see only about 35-40% reduction recommended in prices, therefore is deeply disappointing," the association said.