It has already been mentioned that if a particular market fails the "three criteria" test, ex ante obligations may not be imposed on undertakings operating in that market. Meanwhile, if there are already obligations imposed on any undertaking in this market - as is the case of the retail markets throughout the entire national territory and of trunk segments on "Routes C" - stakeholders would be given an appropriate period of notice as to their withdrawal. The view is also taken that a gradual transition should be ensured, taking into account the need to reconcile the actions of the regulator with the principles of predictability.

The following analysis seeks to demonstrate that the withdrawal of obligations on these markets is appropriate and does not imply significant loss or damage. Another purpose of this analysis is to identify the most appropriate way of withdrawing existing obligations, in particular assessing the duration of a transition period during which the obligations (or some obligations) shall continue in effect. This transitional period is justified by the fact that it may be necessary to protect end-users and operators who have invested in the market and who may require a period of time to adjust their offers, their objectives and their strategies to the new reality.