BBA Spotlight Series - Gerardo Soria Guitérrez, TMT Lawyer

In our latest interview, we feature Gerardo Soria , a leading TMT lawyer and founding partner of Soria Abogados, S.C. With a distinguished career that spans roles at Galicia Abogados, S.C., and the Federal Telecommunications Commission of Mexico, Gerardo has significantly shaped the legal landscape in telecommunications, broadcasting, and media. Holding advanced degrees in Law and specializing in Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law, he combines deep legal expertise with a passion for modern literature. Recognized by Chambers and Partners and a respected author and editor, Gerardo offers profound insights into the challenges and future of Mexico’s legal framework in regulated sectors.

Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in law, particularly in the telecommunications sector?

I was drawn to law by a passion for understanding and navigating complex legal landscapes. The telecommunications sector appealed to me due to its dynamic nature and the intersection of technology and regulation.

Q2. In your extensive experience, what has been the most challenging case or project you've worked on?

The most challenging project was facilitating the acquisition of multiple South American cellphone companies for América Móvil. Understanding diverse market environments and regulations across countries with different economic systems was a significant challenge.

Q3. Can you discuss a significant change in telecommunications law that has impacted the industry in recent years?

In 2013, the constitution was modified to create the Federal Telecommunications Institute as an autonomous constitutional body, with powers to regulate the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors, and to be the authority in economic competition matters for said sectors. Likewise, the figure of preponderant economic agent was created, which implied that for the first time, asymmetric regulation could be implemented for América Móvil (Telmex, Telnor, Telcel).

Q4. As a founding member of the Telecommunications Law Institute, A.C., what objectives do you aim to achieve through this platform?

The goal of the Telecommunications Law Institute is to contribute to the development of a telecommunications market with effective competition.

Q5. How did your role as Commissioner and General Counsel at the Federal Telecommunications Commission of Mexico shape your career?

My role as Commissioner and General Counsel at the Federal Telecommunications Commission allowed me to understand firsthand what the major flaws are that still maintain the very high market concentration by América Móvil.

Q6. How do you stay informed and ahead in the rapidly changing field of telecommunications law?

To stay informed, I actively participate in crafting new legislation and regulation as an independent consultant in the field.

Q7. Could you share your thoughts on the future of broadcasting and media in relation to legal regulations?

While regulations are in place, the problem is that the authority (Federal Telecommunications Institute) does not generally enforce them.

Q8. What advice would you give to young lawyers aspiring to specialize in regulated sectors like telecommunications?

I suggest young lawyers to be very analytical of any existing and new regulations. The TMT sector is quite regulated. Unfortunately, not all regulations improve the efficiencies of the sector. In some instances, regulations are not consistent with the current legal framework or cause the regulated companies to deal with cumbersome obligations that are not in the best interest of the market.

Q9. What legacy do you hope to leave in the field of telecommunications law?

My hope is to leave a legacy of fostering effective competition and fair regulation in the telecommunications sector.

Q10. Why did you decide to become a member of BBA Deals & Disputes?

Joining BBA Deals & Disputes provides an opportunity to contribute my expertise to deal-making and dispute resolution within a dynamic legal environment.

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Learn more about Gerardo Soria Guitérrez.