Thailand has witnessed extraordinary growth in mobile data communications thanks to third-generation (3G) coverage nationwide.
The auctions of 3G licences two years ago prompted the three winning bidders — AIS, DTAC and True Move — to expand their networks with a combined 33,000 3G base stations.
Some 73.5 million subscriptions in Thailand are connected through 3G mobile technology on the 2100-megahertz spectrum out of a total of 103 million mobile subscriptions.
"Thailand is in dire need of 4G wireless broadband services to catch up with booming demand for mobile data and fast-changing consumer lifestyles," said Somprasong Boonyachai, vice-chairman of the AIS board.
The 4G licence auctions could boost Thailand's competitive advantage, benefiting information and communications technology (ICT) businesses and employment, generating more income taxes and serving the digital economy policy.
True Corporation chief executive Suphachai Chearavanont said Thailand could be a centre for the Asean Economic Community due to its location.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) was initially set to auction the 1800- and 900-MHz spectra to provide 4G services this past August and November.
But the junta in June ordered a suspension for another year, saying it needed the regulator to amend several impractical sections of the Frequency Allocation Act before auctions could take place.
NBTC vice-chairman Settapong Malisuwan said the regulator planned to start revising the details of 4G auctions next month and expected them to take place by July.
Col Settapong said the 3G licence auction in 2012 was a good example of why the country must have more wireless broadband networks.
With the availability of 3G infrastructure, Thailand's ranking for ICT development jumped to 81st last year from 91st in 2012 among 166 countries and territories.
Col Settapong said the country's ICT ranking could rise again this year as mobile operators complete their 3G network expansion.
The 3G service on the 2100-MHz spectrum could also lower mobile tariff rates and encourage higher speeds of internet service.