On 4 February 2026, the European Commission opened an in-depth investigation into the Romanian national regulatory authority’s (ANCOM) draft market analysis concerning the proposed reintroduction of regulation on the market for wholesale local access provided at a fixed location in Romania.
Romania is a leader in fixed internet connectivity in the EU, with fast networks covering most households and low retail prices. There has been no regulation in this market since 2015.
on 5 January 2025, ANCOM proposes to reintroduce ex ante regulation to ensure consumer choice and prevent price hikes. The Romanian regulator identifies DIGI Romania S.A. as having significant market power and proposes to impose regulatory remedies including access obligation, price control and transparency.
However, the European Commission has serious doubts as to the compatibility of ANCOM’s draft measure with EU law and considers it necessary to initiate an in-depth investigation.