The CRT’s Regulatory Sandbox: Mexico’s New Model for Digital Governance

The article explores Mexico’s recent regulatory transformation with the creation of the Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT), a new body emerging from the dissolution of the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) in late 2024. Established in mid-2025, the CRT represents a major step toward modernizing Mexico’s digital governance framework. It seeks to tackle the increasing regulatory challenges posed by platforms that often evade accountability due to outdated legal structures. The CRT introduces a novel mechanism known as the ‘regulatory sandbox,’ which provides a controlled environment for technological experimentation while ensuring consumer protection and public interest safeguards.

This innovation aims to close the existing gap between rapid technological developments and slow regulatory adaptation, supporting startups and nontraditional actors such as universities and nanosatellite developers. The sandbox model allows flexible testing of regulatory approaches, aligning with global best practices adapted to Mexico’s unique digital landscape. The CRT, governed by a five-member board of commissioners with staggered terms, also assumes extended powers, including oversight of spectrum allocation, concessions, and even space sustainability regulation. It is expected to become fully operational by January 2026.

The article underscores the government’s proactive stance in balancing innovation with accountability. By fostering participatory governance and technical deliberation, this reform offers a chance to redefine how Mexico regulates its fast-evolving digital ecosystem. The successful implementation of the CRT will depend on transparent appointments, technical competence, and active collaboration between government, industry, academia, and civil society.