Italy antitrust authority pauses TIM and Fastweb+Vodafone RAN deal

TL;DR
Italy's competition authority has paused a radio access network sharing deal between TIM and Fastweb+Vodafone in Italy over concerns about its effect on market competition. The decision blocks the project for now while the authority reviews the arrangement. The case centers on RAN sharing, where operators share parts of their mobile network infrastructure.

Italy's competition authority has paused a proposed RAN-sharing arrangement between TIM and Fastweb+Vodafone in Italy, according to telecoms.com. The authority said the project raises concerns about its impact on competition in the Italian mobile market.

The proposed arrangement involves radio access network, or RAN, sharing. RAN sharing means mobile operators share parts of the network infrastructure that connect devices to the mobile network, such as towers and radio equipment. The review concerns a deal between TIM and Fastweb+Vodafone, the combined business of Fastweb and Vodafone in Italy.

The authority has effectively blocked the project for now rather than approving it immediately. The reported reason is concern that the arrangement could affect market dynamics in Italy. The source report does not state a final outcome or a date for a final decision.

Related questions

• What is RAN sharing in a mobile network?
• Why did Italy's competition authority pause the TIM and Fastweb+Vodafone deal?
• Which companies are involved in the Italian RAN-sharing review?