The Danish Competition and Consumer Authority (DCCA) has launched an in-depth review of the country’s fixed broadband market for private consumers, citing signs that competition in the sector may not be functioning effectively.
The move follows recent market developments, including the departure of several providers and increased market concentration among larger players.
The regulator has announced that it will meet with key companies involved in the sale and infrastructure of broadband services to better understand current pricing structures, strategic behaviour, and market dynamics. These companies include both retail broadband providers and network owners, responsible for the physical infrastructure used to deliver broadband connections to households.
The DCCA emphasised that broadband has become an essential service for daily life in Danish households, supporting everything from remote work and education to streaming and gaming. Ensuring effective competition in this market is therefore critical to protecting consumer choice and securing better prices and product quality.
Initial observations from the Authority suggest that several smaller providers have exited the market in recent years, while larger companies have strengthened their positions. This consolidation raises concerns about the long-term health of competition and the possibility that dominant firms may be able to exert excessive influence over pricing.
Although companies are free to set their own prices, Danish competition law places restrictions on the conduct of firms with significant market power. The upcoming meetings will help the DCCA determine whether current market conditions or pricing practices raise any legal or competitive issues.
The inquiry will focus solely on fixed broadband services sold to private individuals and will be conducted under the framework of the Danish Competition Act, which obliges companies to provide the Authority with relevant information upon request.
Through this initiative, the DCCA aims to strengthen transparency and competitive conditions in the broadband market, ensuring that consumers continue to benefit from a variety of providers and fair pricing in a sector that plays a fundamental role in modern life.
