Brussels: The GSMA applauds the Commission’s launch of a Public Consultation for the Telecoms Regulatory Reform.

The European telecoms market has changed radically since the current set of telecommunications regulations was adopted. Consumers today can choose from a wide selection of products, services and providers, many of which come from neighbouring industries.

The GSMA strongly encourages the modernisation of regulation in the sector to respond to the changed realities in the market. Europe needs policies that boost investment and encourage innovation, enabling service providers to continue to offer European citizens the quality of service they require. This will ensure that Europe can put itself at the fore of technological innovation on a global scale.

“The GSMA believes that telecommunications reform is the linchpin for Europe’s industrial strategy in the digital sector and could lead to unparalleled prospects for economic growth and social progress,” said Afke Schaart, Vice President Europe, GSMA. “Customers expect to be able to run their small business remotely and they will increasingly expect everyday objects, such as cars or household appliances, to be connected to the internet. At the moment, this is not always possible. The European market needs a new regulatory framework that enhances the region’s ability to be a hub for investment and innovation, as well as protecting European citizens as consumers of communications services.”

Advances in technology are increasingly delivering new and innovative products and services to European citizens, and the GSMA supports the Commission in creating a level playing field to ensure that similar services, including those from non-traditional sources, adhere to the same rules. These regulations should be principles-based and be able to withstand the test of time, focused in particular on removing unnecessary regulatory burdens.

The Telecoms Framework Review also provides a fresh opportunity to look at reforms to spectrum policy, supporting deployment of new and harmonised spectrum for mobile broadband across Europe.