The FTTH Council Europe has congratulated policymakers on this landmark agreement and welcomed the new Code, which promotes competitive investment in future-proof digital infrastructure such as full fiber and 5G.
 
Since the European Commission published its proposal in September 2016, the FTTH Council Europe has been advocating for the final text to strike the right balance between rewarding investment risk and ensuring fair competition.
“Today, the co-legislators paved the way for a long-term, competitive market structure by creating an enabling environment for all investors, both established and new, to play an active role in building our digital highways,” said Ronan Kelly, President of the FTTH Council Europe.
 
For the first time, investment in very high capacity (VHC) networks is becoming a legally binding objective of the regulatory framework, alongside competition, single market creation, and consumer benefits. This new Code marks a shift from the previous regulatory framework, addressing the urgent need for phased-in infrastructure investment in Europe and supporting the evolution of the telecoms market towards a long-term competitive structure. Even more importantly, the parameters defining VHC networks will be built upon the characteristics of fiber.
 
“There is clearly a push for investment in fiber optics,” says Erzsébet Fitori, Director General of the FTTH Council Europe. “We see many new wholesale vehicles emerging, backed by new types of investors, and now there is also more room for phased-in investments made within a safeguarded competitive structure, governed by a commercial scheme. The new Code presents an opportunity for full-fiber investors and a win-win situation for end users, who will benefit from fiber-based connectivity and long-term competition.”
 
While the framework remains complex, the FTTH Council welcomes these new rules, which will stimulate investment and deliver benefits for European citizens and businesses.
National Regulatory Authorities and BEREC will therefore play a crucial role in implementing the new Code to boost fiber across the European Union.
Fiber optics is the foundation of fixed and wireless gigabit networks, as well as the key enabler of all new technologies and innovative digital services. It is also a prerequisite for Europe's global digital competitiveness and sustainability, and this new Code will be key to paving the way for Europe's all-fiber future.
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