Rural Canadian internet providers debate whether the CRTC should expand wholesale fibre access for affordable remote services, with smaller providers advocating for a national framework and larger ones preferring facilities-based competition.

A national framework allowing smaller rural internet providers to use larger companies' networks could provide more affordable options for remote residents, according to New Brunswick-based Xplore Inc. CEO Rizwan Jamal has urged the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to consider expanding wholesale fibre access, stating that it is crucial for smaller providers to gain scale to compete with larger carriers. The CRTC is currently reviewing internet competition in Canada, focusing on issues such as the effectiveness of internet services markets, potential changes needed to boost competition, and incentivizing companies to invest in high-quality services.

February 13, 2024
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