The Broadband requirement was a hot topic in Australia last week.
The findings are contained in the latest edition, the eleventh, of the ITU's flagship ICT regulatory report 'Trends in Telecommunication Reform'. It says that an effective national broadband policy must "examine the options for stimulating the deployment of broadband and for maximising the positive economic impact of the technology."
According to the ITU, such a policy "will include strategic spectrum management that encompasses managing the transition from analogue to digital radio and television broadcasting, and the laying of a solid foundation for the rollout of next generation networks." It adds: "The advent of high-speed networks and new kinds of content also puts emphasis on the importance of the role of government and ICT regulators in stimulating the demand for broadband and in promoting investment in infrastructure.
According to the ITU, the report " confirms that ICT markets around the world are becoming more competitive in just about every respect, from international gateway services to wireless local loop and 3G." The report says that, in 2010, more than 93 percent of countries worldwide allowed competition in the provision of Internet services, and 90 percent in the provision of mobile cellular services. A further 92 percent have competitive 3G mobile broadband markets.