The new rules mandate large mobile service providers to sign an OMV access agreement within a maximum period of 90 days.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced final rules to facilitate market entry for new mobile virtual operators (MVNOs), a move that is expected to spur mobile competition across the country.
In 2021, the CRTC established preliminary rules to force large network operators to share their networks with regional providers under the MVNO model, so that the latter can reach more users outside their local coverage.
The new rules mandate large mobile service providers to sign an OMV access agreement within a maximum period of 90 days.
The CRTC expects regional competitors to begin selling plans in new parts of Canada shortly after these deals take effect. The authority also indicates that it will ensure that agreements are reached quickly so that Canadians have more options for cell phone services.
Per the Commission’s rules, Bell Mobility, RCCI, TCI, and Sasktel are large operators forced to share their networks with MVNOs, especially in areas where they exercise market power.
During a market review in 2021, these four operators will also be required to offer low-cost plans for occasional use to facilitate access to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those on low incomes.
On the other hand, the rules also include bulk roaming agreements for 5G networks, which are currently being implemented, which “will make it possible to ensure that competition can continue to flourish as the mobile wireless service market evolves towards 5G”. ,” the CRTC said.
