On 15 April 2004, the Government decided to ease the terms of UMTS licences in mainland Finland. Licensees are allowed to construct a part of the networks together. However, each licensee's own network must provide 35 per cent of the population coverage.
In mainland Finland, licences to provide UMTS networks are held by Radiolinja Origo Oy, Sonera Mobile Networks Oy, Suomen 3G Oy and Finnet Networks Ltd.
The need to amend the licences arose from the development of the European markets and of third generation technology usage, which have been slower than expected, as well as of changes in the licence ownership bases after 1999.
With regard to all actors, UMTS network construction has been slower than expected. Therefore, it is not appropriate to set coverage requirements with strict deadlines. A reason to amend the licence terms was that the earlier terms did not allow joint construction or use of networks.
All licensees have agreed to the amendments. Ministry of Transport and Communications monitors the development of third generation mobile networks and services and makes proposals on commercial opening of networks and possible coverage requirements by 30 November 2004.
For further information, please contact: Mr Riku Ahola, Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 9 160 28609
