Postal sector heading for full liberalisation at the end of 2012

‘We are fast approaching a very important milestone in the provision of postal services in Malta, with the sector fully opening to competition by the start of 2013.  This new environment will bring with it new challenges and opportunities for postal operators.  It should also result in more choice and a better deal overall for consumers.   From a regulatory perspective, these are hectic and exciting times, and we look forward to managing this new state of affairs fully aware of the complexities it presents,’ said Ing. Philip Micallef, Executive Chairman at the Malta Communications Authority (MCA). 

‘Preparations for this final phase in the liberalisation process have been in the offing for quite a while, culminating in the drafting of two key consultation documents.  The intention behind the publication of these documents is to obtain feedback on the Government’s proposed approach to regulation under this new regulatory framework,’ he continued.

The first consultation addresses how competition, which is essential both in terms of driving operational efficiency and quality, as well as offering increased benefits to consumers, can be effectively regulated in a fully liberalised environment.

The second consultation focuses on the review of the current authorisation regime with regard to the licensing structure and related administrative charging principles.

‘The MCA’s primary objective remains that of safeguarding the provision of an efficient, affordable, high quality universal postal service, together with the provision of fair market conditions, conducive to effective competition between postal operators,’ concluded Ing. Micallef.

The MCA welcomes feedback from all interested parties on the above-mentioned consultations by the deadlines indicated in the documents.