The Swedish Post and Telecom Agency (PTS) has put forward a proposal for the deregulation of the broadcast of radio and television via terrestrial networks in Sweden.
The regulator says its assessment that competition is working in the end-user markets, where more people watch and listen via the internet with good broadband coverage throughout the country. It has launched a proposal on its decision.
Its regulation of the broadcasting market has meant that transmission company Teracom must provide distribution services for free-to-air television and national analogue audio radio at a “cost-oriented price”. The current regulation doesn’t take into account the cost increases incurred by Teracom because fewer people are using the terrestrial platform.
There are no longer any pay-TV channels in the terrestrial network and after the turn of the year, TV4 will also cease its terrestrial broadcasts. More end users are choosing digital platforms to enjoy radio and television, and access to internet-based services where radio and television can be consumed without an additional payment.
In addition, broadband coverage – both fixed and mobile – has reached the same levels as the terrestrial network.
Since PTS regulation no longer contributes to increased competition in the end-user markets or leads to increased freedom of choice for end users, the authority proposes that the broadcasting markets be deregulated from the end of this year.
