Dutch competition regulator NMa has postponed taking a decision on the proposed takeover of cable operator Caiway by KPN, with the possible intention of advancing more conditions. KPN announced on 2 May the proposed takeover of the services provider from Rabo Bouwfonds Communication Infrastructure Fund. The NMa and telecom regulator OPTA fear that the takeover will limit competition in the Westland region, because other providers could lack access to networks. The NMa said that with the takeover, cable and copper networks in CAIW's catchment area, located mainly in the west of the country, will all go into one hand, potentially reducing consumer choice for TV, internet and fixed telephony. As a condition for the takeover, CIF said KPN had to open its future fibre network to other companies wishing to offer services using different infrastructures. The NMa is wondering however if such companies, in light of KPN and CAIW as competitors, would be interested in such services, or if they would receive interesting enough service offers from KPN. The regulator therefore decided it needed to further look into the question before authorizing the acquisition and that the parties may need to apply for a licence. Opta agreed to the need for more information and said that the NMa could take a decision 13 weeks after such a licence application. If approval is still not granted, a new deadline will have to be presented.
