Washington, July 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A bipartisan group of 19 US lawmakers has urged the Trump administration to intensify preparations for a key international telecommunications conference in China, warning that Beijing could use the forum to influence global spectrum policies governing Wi-Fi, 6G and other emerging wireless technologies.
In a letter addressed to the US State Department, the Department of Commerce and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the lawmakers sought details of the administration’s strategy for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), scheduled to be held in Shanghai.
The legislators cautioned that decisions taken at the conference could shape the future of global wireless communications, satellite systems and next-generation connectivity standards. They stressed the need for a coordinated US approach and stronger collaboration with international partners to safeguard American technological leadership.
Representative April McClain Delaney, one of the lead signatories along with Representative Jay Obernolte, said the United States must remain proactive as China seeks to influence international spectrum policy. She emphasised that close coordination among federal agencies and allied nations is essential to protect innovation, economic competitiveness and the future of wireless technologies.
The lawmakers also requested information on inter-agency coordination, staffing, resource allocation and the selection of a US ambassador for the conference.
A major focus of the letter is preserving unlicensed access to the 6 GHz spectrum band, which lawmakers described as critical for expanding Wi-Fi capacity and supporting future technological growth. They noted that nearly 90 per cent of smartphone data traffic in the United States is carried over Wi-Fi, making sufficient unlicensed spectrum essential to meet growing demand.
The group alleged that China and like-minded stakeholders are advocating licensed-only use of the upper 6 GHz band, a move they said could weaken international support for unlicensed spectrum and erode US influence in the global connectivity ecosystem.
The lawmakers also sought details on the administration’s plans to build a coalition of countries supporting the US position, with particular attention to engagement with Mexico and Brazil, which they said have previously aligned with China on certain spectrum-related issues.
The letter has been sent to Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, National Telecommunications and Information Administration chief Arielle Roth, and FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. The lawmakers have requested a written response by August 22.
The initiative received support from NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, which said continued access to the full 6 GHz band is vital for next-generation Wi-Fi services, consumers and businesses.
The World Radiocommunication Conference is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
FOLLOW NOW
