| NOTAS: | The shape of regulation in Europe is changing dramatically. A new study from Regulaid into the decisions taken so far by national regulatory authorities in the process of implementation of the new regulatory framework for telecommunications shows a number of key trends: Regulation to date has had a limited impact on improving competition in many areas: the vast majority of fixed markets analysed by regulators so far have incumbents with significant market power
Wholesale line rental is conquering Europe : many regulators are introducing this remedy to oblige incumbent operators to lease retail lines to try to improve competition for consumers and small businesses
Mobile markets are becoming more competitive, but competition problems still remain : the study contrasts the competitive conditions in markets where national regulators have found SMP and where they have not, and considers the role of European Commission interventions in mobile
Regulaid undertook this study, co-commissioned by a number of national regulators and market players, because decisions that have already been made by regulators, and positions taken by the European Commissions with regard to them, can have the effect of precedents for the regulatory process in countries that will make these decisions later. These precedents can play an important role in the national consultations about a regulators proposed measures, and also in their assessment by the European Commission and by appeal courts. Analysis of the decisions taken so far in other countries can help regulators to shape their ideas on the market reviews yet to come. Market players can outline trends and precedents in other countries when arguing their position in the national consultation procedures of their regulator, or in procedures before appeal courts. |
