January
2000
Latvia
Update Memo
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Latvia Update Memo |
The following report outlines new developments in the past three months and the state of on-going developments.
Introduction
To summarize the activities of existing major alternative network operators there are the following conclusions:
1. The regulatory background
No changes have occurred in the regulatory background. This means that the legislation and regulatory background are lagging behind the emerging opportunities given by new technologies.
All new activities of companies are based on these principles.
First of all it is related to "Voice over IP" and interactive CTV services.
2. Business constraints and entry barriers
One of the actual entry barriers is the harmonization process of standards for new services such as "Voice over IP" and interactive CTV.
3. Attitude of the incumbent operator towards alternative network providers
Negative.
4. On-going regulatory developments concerning alternative networks
To liberalise telecommunications networks and services in Latvia a Governmental Commission has been established for discussions with TILTS Communications. Its objective is to revise the mentioned Clauses and to co-ordinate competition policy in the near future. Negotiations are going on (Privatisation Agency with Lattelekom's strategic investor Sonera) about shortening monopoly status (until 2002-2003).
5. Types of companies offering networks
No further developments have occurred. All plans of companies are exposed on the following Web sites:
6. Type of operators using the networks
All data transmission service providers (23 providers) and mobile service providers use Lattelekom's infrastructure.
7. Type of services offered by the operators on the networks.
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