EU's Digital Infrastructure Plan Sparks Concern Over Potential Network Fees
The European Commission's recent White Paper on Europe's digital infrastructure has sparked concern among stakeholders. The document, published in February 2024, suggests proposals that could increase costs for consumers and businesses, reduce competition, and potentially introduce internet network usage fees.
The White Paper, which references spectrum, satellites, telecoms consolidation, and the stock market today, proposes a 'level playing field' for telcos and cloud providers. This could lead to network usage fees, a move that has been opposed by many in the industry. The Commission's previous consultation on the telecoms sector was largely ignored in the White Paper, which looks to reopen the door for these fees.
The document also considers regulatory intervention on the IP interconnection market, another potential route for network fees. Stakeholders are urged to respond to the ongoing open consultation to avoid detrimental proposals. Failure to participate could result in solutions that harm consumers and businesses.
The White Paper's proposals, including the extension of the European Electronic Communications Network directive to cloud providers, could pave the way for network usage fees. To ensure positive outcomes for Europe's telecom and digital market, all stakeholders are encouraged to engage in the open consultation. The future of the telecoms sector hangs in the balance, and the Commission's vision for the industry remains unclear.
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