The Malta Communications Authority has published a report on the consultation process regarding price controls applicable to telecommunications services.
The report deals with the consultative process initiated last year and the MCA's price control strategy in relation to the mobile and fixed telephony services market as well as the Cable TV services market.
Separate consultation with operators will be held in relation to the administrative procedures to be followed upon the introduction of new or proposed changes in tariffs for such services.
The MCA will undertake a review of the level of effective competition in the telecommunications market this year and, based on the outcome of that review, reconsider the regulatory controls suitable to the relevant markets.
Regarding fixed telephony services, the MCA will in the coming weeks publish another consultative paper with the object of establishing a suitable price cap mechanism applicable to local fixed telephony tariffs.
The object of price regulation is to establish a reasonable balance between consumer interests and the development of sustainable competition in the market.
The document - Price Control Review - Report on Consultation and Decision - may be viewed on the MCA's website and free copies may also be obtained from the MCA.
www.mca.org.mt