A Pre-Emption for WTO: A Critical Analysis of the EC Roaming Regulation for Crossing International Borders in the Mobile World

Abstract

The implementation of the WTO Telecommunications Service Agreement of 1997 which dismantled tariffs on telecommunications services, introduced the universal obligations, and consumer protection within national markets has been the last of its kind on the International level. Today, in the fast-developing mobile services sector, a need for an update is unavoidable to ensure that it continues to serve the best interest of consumers internationally through their national markets. This can be achieved by finishing what the EC started in 2007 through its execution of the “Roaming Regulation” affecting the mobile Communication Tariffs and now securing huge benefits for consumers.

This research examines regulatory challenges in place, by briefly discussing the WTO Telecommunications Service Agreement with a special focus on EC Roaming Regulation. It further assesses feasibility of the Regulation in the industry. It also evaluate the implications of the regulation on international scale and need for international interference by the WTO. Finally, it determines the future of mobile industry.

Keywords: WTO, EC, Roaming Regulation, Telecommunications, mobile communications, WTO Service Agreement 1997

JEL Classification: legal, communications, regulatory