On 11 February 2022, Colombia’s Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) issued Resolución CRC 6522 de 2022, amending the full set of rules on telecommunications network access and interconnection contained in Book IV of Resolution 5050. The document further improves regulations covering commercial A2P SMS, USSD services, VoLTE interconnection and short code resource management. It defines the rights and obligations of PCA content and application providers as well as Integradores Tecnológicos (IT technical integrators), balancing network modernisation and consumer protection.
Following entry into force, PCAs and IT integrators are granted direct access to the national RNE opt-out database. They must verify and update their subscriber databases prior to dispatching commercial or advertising SMS to avoid messaging users who have opted out. The resolution mandates that all commercial and advertising SMS must display the full legal name or brand name of the sender within the message body to enable users to identify the origin. PCAs and IT integrators are required to process user unsubscribe requests promptly to safeguard user rights for SMS marketing.
The text also strengthens the short code allocation and revocation regime. Short codes may only be used for activities covered by their registration; non-compliance will result in immediate revocation of the number resources. On network interconnection, it updates SS7 and SIP signalling interconnection standards, mandates end-to-end VoLTE interoperability, and standardises interconnection node deployment and link capacity dimensioning. Operators may not arbitrarily refuse SMPP access for compliant service providers and are prohibited from imposing exclusive cooperation terms. The resolution elaborates notification requirements for interconnection agreements: signed interconnection contracts must be filed with the CRC within 15 working days. It also confirms that prepayment mechanisms are an available option for cost sharing and performance guarantees.
The resolution adopts a phased implementation timeline. Provisions governing SMS compliance entered into force in September 2022, while certain rules such as VoLTE interconnection were deferred until 2023. This instrument constitutes a core foundational regulation for cross-border A2P SMS services into Colombia. Overseas service providers must operate via locally registered PCA/IT integrators to gain access to domestic mobile operator networks.
