Energy, water and post Unit
The Dutch Independent Regulator of Post and Electronic Communications in the Netherlands (OPTA) is charged with promoting competition in the Dutch communication industry, as well as with ensuring that the industry continues to enjoy the consumers' confidence (among others: television, internet and telecom) – all in the interest of the consumer. OPTA aims to stimulate competition in this industry, while at the same time protecting the consumer interests. On the other hand, the NMa is charged with competition oversight in general, and also with merger and acquisition assessment in this industry.
Undertakings that are active on the television, internet and telecom market include KPN, Ziggo, UPC, RTL and SBS. The Dutch Competition Act applies to them as well – the NMa therefore keeps an eye on these undertakings' activities.
Risks to competition
Insofar any of these undertakings enjoy a dominant position on certain markets, they are not allowed to abuse them. Examples of abuse of a dominant position include imposing unfair conditions, refusal to supply, or creating barriers making it more difficult for new players to enter the market.
