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Proparco and C3ntro Telecom strengthen connectivity in Mexico, benefiting nearly 10 million people
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Proparco is granting a USD 35 million loan to C3ntro Telecom to support the deployment of a major fiber optic network in Mexico. This financing will help improve digital access for approximately 9.8 million people, particularly in underserved regions. The loan is part of a total USD 70 million financing package led and arranged by Proparco, with Proparco and DEG each contributing USD 35 million. The financing exclusively covers the Mexican portion of the infrastructure. The project signing took place in the presence of Françoise Lombard, CEO of Proparco, during her first visit to the country.
A leading telecommunications provider in Mexico for the past 30 years, C3ntro Telecom delivers voice, SMS, data, and fiber transmission services nationwide.
The project involves the deployment of nearly 2,852 kilometers of fiber optic cable, establishing the first fully integrated express corridor linking Querétaro (Mexico) and Phoenix (United States) via the Mexican Pacific region. This new digital infrastructure aims to enhance network resilience and quality, while meeting the growing demand for high-speed connectivity between two major strategic digital hubs. In addition, the installation of 28 in-line amplifiers (ILA) along the Mexican route will significantly expand coverage and improve service reliability, particularly in rural areas.
Approximately 2.7 million households will benefit from improved connectivity, helping to reduce the digital divide. The project is also expected to enhance access to education and support local economic development in the seven states concerned, where educational gaps and inequalities in access to digital infrastructure remain significant.
This financing fully aligns with Proparco’s strategy to reduce socio-economic and territorial inequalities by supporting the development of essential infrastructure. By strengthening access to fixed broadband, the project will contribute to Mexico’s long-term economic growth and digital transition.
“Proparco is proud to collaborate with C3ntro Telecom for the first time. This partnership marks an important milestone in our commitment to developing strategic digital infrastructure in Mexico. By supporting this transformative project, we are helping strengthen connectivity in underserved regions and contribute to a sustainable reduction of the digital divide,” said Françoise Lombard, Proparco’s CEO.
“At Proparco, we are proud to be leading the financing of such an ambitious project with C3ntro Telecom, one that will have a tangible impact on the lives of nearly 10 million people across the country. The strong partnership with our fellow development finance institution, DEG, enables us to further strengthen our strategy to reduce regional inequalities—here by improving access to digital services in areas where connectivity gaps remain significant.” said Manuel León, Proparco’s Regional Head for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.
“Closing this syndicated facility with Proparco and DEG (KfW Group) is a defining milestone for C3ntro and for Mexico’s digital infrastructure,” said Simón Masri, President of C3ntro Telecom. “Beyond enabling disciplined execution, this project is designed to deliver meaningful benefits for Mexico - strengthening backbone connectivity, helping narrow the digital divide by improving access and quality of service along underserved regions and Cities along the route, and supporting long-term economic growth and competitiveness as the country accelerates its digital transition”.