ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the type of competition that is emerging in the telecommunication sector, why a competitive market structure is displacing a monopoly structure in major segments of the telecommunication system, and the public policy goals that lie behind the pro-competitive regulatory policies that have been adopted by an increasing number of developed countries. It examines the relevance of trade-based rules to guide international competition among telecommunication networks. The chapter explores the activities that can be performed with respect to a telecommunication network are divided into several categories. The several categories are: The provision of basic transmission facilities, the provision of networking facilities, the provision of electronic messaging services, and the provision of services other than telecommunication services through a telecommunication network. Most countries that permit firms to establish private networks will permit a certain degree of competition in the provision of the private transmission facilities installed within the premises of the firm.
