The Romanian Competition Council has launched a public consultation on the proposed commitments submitted by Vodafone Romania S.A. and Digi Romania S.A. in relation to their planned acquisition of Telekom Romania Mobile Communications S.A.
The consultation aims to address antitrust concerns arising from the transaction, particularly in relation to market competition, service quality, and the use of spectrum resources.
The commitments proposed by both companies seek to mitigate the competition authority’s concerns and safeguard consumer interests. Key elements of the proposals include measures to enhance mobile data services, preserve competition in the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) segment, and ensure fair access to telecom infrastructure.
Improving Mobile Data Services
Digi Romania has committed to increasing the average mobile data transfer speed across its network through targeted investments. The company also pledged to utilize and develop the spectrum assets acquired through the transaction until the expiration of their licenses in April 2029.
Vodafone Romania has proposed to enhance the quality of mobile data services for both Vodafone and Telekom customers by integrating the two networks. The integration is expected to result in greater coverage, higher capacity, and improved performance through more efficient use of spectrum.
Infrastructure and MVNO Access
To maintain infrastructure competition, both Digi and Vodafone have committed to preserving Orange Romania’s access to mobile telecommunications site colocation services.
Regarding MVNO access, Digi will publish an updated and improved access offer on its website, allowing virtual operators to use its mobile communications network. Vodafone will ensure continued MVNO access to Telekom’s network in accordance with conditions stipulated by Romania’s National Authority for Management and Regulation in Communications (ANCOM).
Vodafone has also committed to guaranteeing MVNO access for Veridian Systems SRL and maintaining current pricing conditions for clients using machine-to-machine (M2M) services.
Consumer Protections and Market Impact
In addition, Digi has pledged to maintain the validity and pricing of existing prepaid mobile contracts. The proposed commitments collectively aim to preserve competitive dynamics and protect consumers in a market that is becoming increasingly consolidated.
The Competition Council’s preliminary analysis of the transaction identified potential issues related to pricing, service quality, and the use of radio spectrum. These commitments are intended to resolve such concerns and ensure the transaction does not adversely impact the competitive environment.
Interested parties are invited to submit comments by June 2, 2025.
Following the consultation period, the Council may request amendments to the commitments or decide whether to accept or reject them.
