The Swedish Post and Telecom Agency (PTS) has issued a proposal to deregulate the broadcasting of radio and television via terrestrial networks in Sweden. The regulator's assessment indicates that sufficient competition exists in end-user markets, driven by the increasing popularity of internet-based services.
This shift is due to widespread broadband coverage and the growing preference among viewers for digital platforms. The PTS notes that its current regulation mandates transmission company Teracom to offer distribution services for free-to-air television and national analogue audio radio at a “cost-oriented price”. However, this regulation fails to account for Teracom's rising costs resulting from the declining use of terrestrial platforms. Notably, the terrestrial network currently lacks pay-TV channels, and TV4 will discontinue its terrestrial broadcasts after the new year.
The PTS argues that because more end-users are selecting digital platforms for radio and television consumption and internet-based services offer readily available content, its regulation no longer fosters competition or expands consumer choice. Consequently, the agency proposes the deregulation of broadcasting markets from the end of the year.