On 16 July 2025, the new Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law (LFTR) was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, replacing the previous legal framework in place since 2014. This reform introduces a significant institutional restructuring, including the dissolution of the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), the granting of powers to the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency (ATDT), and the creation of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT). The entry into force of several provisions is subject to the formal integration of the CRT’s Plenary. The law has sparked intense debate due to its potential impact on regulatory autonomy, privacy, freedom of expression, and competition in the sector.
Key takeaways
- The IFT will be dissolved and replaced by the ATDT and CRT. The IFT will remain operational until the CRT Plenary is formally integrated.
- The ATDT, as a cabinet-level agency, will be responsible for public policy formulation, digital inclusion programs, and oversight of public infrastructure.
- The CRT will act as a decentralized technical body with operational autonomy, responsible for spectrum regulation, concession granting, and user rights protection.
- Spectrum management is redefined as a national priority, recognized as a public domain asset, with new programs for frequency band use, concessions, and authorizations.
- The law introduces shared spectrum use and experimental authorizations (regulatory sandboxes) for testing emerging technologies.
- A new unified concession scheme is established, covering commercial, public, private, and social uses, including community, indigenous, and Afro-Mexican groups.
- The Ministry of the Interior assumes new powers over official broadcast time, content supervision, and advertising on radio and television.
- The Federal Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO) will oversee and sanction violations of user rights.
- The law incorporates principles of non-discrimination and protection of fundamental rights.
- Real-time geolocation and metadata retention obligations are maintained.
- Mobile service activation requires official identification, with CURP-based electronic ID expected under future regulations.
- The role of CFE-Internet for All is strengthened as a state provider.
- A general suspension of procedures is established for 15 business days following the CRT Plenary’s integration, with specific exceptions.
- Audience rights are regulated, and digital platforms are subject to new advertising obligations.
- The law introduces a sanctions framework based on the infringer’s revenue.
- Transitional provisions establish deadlines: 180 calendar days for the spectrum auction plan, 120 business days for mobile line identification guidelines, and one year for legislative harmonization.
- Ongoing legal acts, contracts, and procedures from the IFT will be assumed by the new authorities.
- A regularization program is enabled for broadcasting concessionaires who applied for renewals under the previous law.
- Permits issued prior to the 2014 LFTR must transition to the new regime within one year or will expire.
In depth
The new LFTR introduces a dual institutional structure: the ATDT as a policy-making and coordination body, and the CRT as a technical regulator. The CRT will only begin operations once its Plenary is fully appointed, at which point the IFT will be dissolved and its functions, resources, and obligations transferred. The law emphasizes spectrum as a strategic national asset and introduces flexible mechanisms such as shared use, experimental licenses, and regulatory sandboxes. It also expands the scope of concessions and introduces new categories for underserved communities.
The Ministry of the Interior gains oversight over official broadcast time and content compliance, while PROFECO is tasked with enforcing user rights. Digital platforms face new advertising regulations, and audience rights are formally recognized. The law maintains surveillance-related obligations such as real-time geolocation and metadata retention.
Transitional provisions outline a phased implementation: the IFT remains operational until the CRT Plenary is integrated; procedures are suspended for 15 business days thereafter; and deadlines are set for issuing key regulatory instruments. Existing legal instruments and procedures will remain valid and be assumed by the new authorities.
Conclusion
The new LFTR represents a structural shift in Mexico’s telecommunications landscape. While it aims to modernize the institutional framework and expand digital access, it also raises significant concerns regarding regulatory independence, digital rights, and market competition. Organizations should proactively assess the implications of this reform and adapt their compliance, operational, and legal strategies accordingly.
