Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved amendments to the country’s Federal Law “On Communications” related to the provision of universal communication services.
ComNews reports that they effectively for the first time introduce a requirement for the incumbent Rostelecom to open up its networks to other operators.
It adds that in late March 2014 the Russian government selected Rostelecom as the sole provider of universal services throughout the country.
A 10-year contract between the telco and Federal Communications Agency (Rossvyaz) was then signed on May 2014.
However, according to Rossvyaz this will now be amended.
Significantly, all market participants are currently required to pay 1.2% of their income to what is known as the Universal Services Fund.
