Italian operators move toward 5G network-sharing pact

Telecom Italia and Fastweb + Vodafone have reached a preliminary agreement to share parts of their radio access networks (RAN), aiming to cut costs and extend 5G coverage. The final contract, expected by the second quarter, still needs approval from Italy’s communications and economic ministries and other authorities.

The plan focuses on municipalities with fewer than 35,000 residents. Each operator will handle network rollout in ten regions, together targeting about 15,500 sites by the end of 2028. The companies say sharing will reduce duplicate infrastructure and support wider, more sustainable 5G coverage, particularly in underserved, low-density areas. Both stress they will keep commercial and technology independence, following a model already used in other EU markets.