Brazil Regulator Approves Oi Fixed-Line Sale With Conditions

Brazil's telecom regulator Anatel has given the green light for Oi's fixed-line business to be sold to Método. The transaction, valued at R$60.1 million (US$11.8 million), was secured via a single upfront payment. Following the approval, the fixed-line customers will eventually be under Método's control, but the transition will be contingent on several conditions being met.

For now, Oi continues to serve the fixed-line customers, particularly those in remote areas where it is the sole provider, known as the Carrier of Last Resort. Anatel has imposed these conditions to ensure service continuity and protect customers, particularly in remote regions where Oi remains the only fixed-line operator. These obligations include taking over Oi's regulatory commitments, signing a supplementary agreement with Anatel, providing a guarantee for service continuity, and presenting a plan for transferring phone numbers.

Anatel has also extended the requirement for voice service in these areas until December 2028, highlighting the financial burden of maintaining the fixed-line network, especially in rural areas. The regulatory approval is a significant step in the sale process, but Anatel's conditional approval means Oi remains responsible for the service until all conditions are satisfied.

The sale is part of Oi's bankruptcy proceedings, with a court-appointed administrator now managing the company's remaining assets and debts. The process, which began in April 2026, is expected to take several months as Método prepares the required guarantees and plans for final approval from Anatel. The exact impact on Oi's overall restructuring remains unclear.