
Aeranti-Corallo, the association representing Italian local radio broadcasters, is urging the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy (Mimit) and Agcom, the communications regulatory authority, to address the critical shortage of DAB+ frequencies for local stations. The group has called for allocating unused Band III frequencies, initially planned for multiplex 12 under Agcom resolution 39/19/CONS, to local radio broadcasting.
The current frequency resources are insufficient to meet demand from local broadcasters, with many regions facing capacity constraints. Aeranti-Corallo argues that integrating the unused Band III frequencies into the national DAB frequency plan (PNAF-DAB) would alleviate these shortages, avoiding competitive bidding processes in regions where demand exceeds supply. It would also help resolve other technical challenges faced by local networks.
Aeranti-Corallo highlights the importance of ensuring that DAB+ develops as the natural evolution of the analog radio system, in line with regulatory objectives. The association points out that local radio stations provide over 2,000 jobs and generate more than €130 million in annual advertising revenue, representing about one-third of the sector’s total.
They warn that the current frequency shortage risks undermining the local broadcasting industry rather than fostering its growth. Addressing this issue, they argue, is essential to safeguarding the sector’s sustainability and development as it transitions to digital broadcasting.
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