Canada’s telecommunications regulator to increase competition in Canada’s internet market

OTTAWA, ON. — The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced on Tuesday that it will permit smaller internet competitors to use the fibre internet networks of large telephone companies like Telus and Bell nationwide. 

In its announcement, the CRTC said the decision will expand internet service competition and offer consumers new choices, lower prices, and innovative new offers. 

Based on the August 13th decision, smaller companies will be able to use larger companies’ networks all across the country beginning in February of 2025.

That access only applies to already existing fibre-to-the-home infrastructure. Any new fibre installed will be used exclusively by the company that installs it for five years.

The commission’s CEO, Vicky Eatrides, says the decision builds on their work to ensure Canadians have access to more choices of high-quality Internet and cellphone services at lower prices.

“We have already taken action to encourage more competition in the cellphone market while maintaining incentives for companies to invest in networks,” said Eatrides.

“We are seeing a positive impact on the cellphone rates Canadians pay and expect to see similar benefits for Internet services.”

Earlier this year, the CRTC allowed smaller companies to use fibre infrastructure created by larger corporations in Ontario and Quebec.

The decision was based on a 2023 public proceeding to improve Internet service competition in Canada.

It showed competition in the internet services market is declining, leaving consumers with fewer options for high-speed Internet.

The commission says it will continue to monitor the Internet services market and its regulatory framework to the benefit of Canadians.