Resumo

ALDERETE, María Verónica. Broadband adoption in Latin American countries: does geographic proximity matter?. Prob. Des [online]. 2019, vol.50, n.198, pp.31-56.  Epub 16-Nov-2019. ISSN 0301-7036.  https://doi.org/10.22201/iiec.20078951e.2019.198.67411.

This paper analyzes whether geographic proximity among countries can be a significant factor in explaining fixed and mobile broadband adoption in Latin America. To address the research question if neighbor effects could impact on the broadband penetration of a country, we estimate a Spatial Durbin panel data model over the period 2011-2015, for 18 Latin American countries. Results obtained suggest a significant spatial effect of the broadband penetration. In particular, results show positive spatial effects for fixed broadband (confirming previous studies in Europe) but negative spatial effects for mobile broadband adoption.

Palavras-chave : fixed and mobile broadband; telecommunications; ICT; mobile networks; technological platforms; geographical distance; proximity between countries; affordability gap.