European Union: Closed consultation on BEREC's report on the entry of large content and application providers into the markets for electronic communications networks and services

On 24 March 2024, the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) closed the public consultation on the report on the entry of Large content and application providers (CAPs) into the markets for electronic communications networks and services. In the report, BEREC highlights the significant role of CAPs such as Amazon, Google and Microsoft in the electronic communications network (ECN) and electronic communications services (ECS) markets in Europe, detailing their strategies, investments and the dynamics between them and traditional ECS/ECN operators, focusing on aspects of competition, cooperation and interdependence. The report also includes 3 case studies on content delivery networks (CDNs), submarine cables and internet relay services to better understand the impact and strategies of CAPs in ECS/ECN markets. In addition, the report discusses potential restrictions that operating system providers could impose on ECN/ECS operators, such as access to 5G slicing capabilities and other technical constraints. In the report, BEREC notes the need for regulatory and policy considerations in light of the growing influence of CAPs, highlighting areas for future work to ensure a balanced and competitive market environment.