February 6, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario

Today, the Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced that more Canadians will have better access to higher-quality telecom services as a result of the 2026 auction of residual spectrum licences. Residual auctions put up for sale spectrum that was previously unsold in another auction or was returned. In total, 196 licences out of 207 available were awarded to three Canadian companies. This represents almost 99% of all available spectrum up for auction that will now be put to use.

This auction will encourage competition and innovation, improve rural and remote connectivity, and support the effective deployment of 5G technologies across the country. Licences awarded in this auction include ambitious deployment requirements to ensure that providers use this spectrum to offer services to Canadians in a timely manner.

The Government of Canada will continue to find new, innovative ways to invest in essential services for Canadians by reducing red tape; by supporting the safe, efficient and reliable development and expansion of infrastructure; and by putting its existing policies to good use.