Netherlands - Analysis latest telecoms developments - mid-2009

Synopsis

In June 2009 Paul Budde travelled to Europe (Germany, France, Belgium and the Netherlands). This trip was of particular interest due to a number of developments that have taken place in the past six months. This has changed the telecoms landscape quite dramatically. Following the financial crisis there is now an emphasis on government leadership, and in some countries this has led to trans-sector thinking in relation to infrastructure investments such as FttH. These benefits are way beyond telecoms. This change in policy and strategy could see some countries becoming leaders, while past leaders may fall behind. The Netherlands has been a leader in broadband and it will have to look at these new developments and assess its own situation in the rapidly changing environment. Paul also had a meeting on this topic with Minister Frank Heemskerk and with the Department of Economic Affairs.

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
• 2. The Government’s hands-off approach
• 3. More infrastructure-based competition
• 4. Need for trans-sector vision
• 5. Government leadership is needed
• 6. KPN supports trans sector approach
• 7. Trans-sector meeting with Dutch Minister
• 8. Dutch smart embassy in Canberra
• 9. Other Reports

• Exhibit 1 – Broadband coverage and uptake in the Netherlands
• Exhibit 2 – Unbundling the cable