An individual sending a text message on an iPhone. (Submitted)
The Competition Bureau is proposing a new wireless policy to lower cell phone prices for Canadians.
The Bureau recommends the CRTC pursue what is called a Mobile Virtual Network Operator policy.
It would force Bell, Rogers and Telus to sell temporary access to their wireless networks to regional carriers who intend to invest and further expand their own networks.
“Wireless prices are significantly lower in areas of Canada where strong regional carriers compete with established national players,” said Matthew Boswell, Commissioner of Competition, in a news release Monday.
The Bureau found that Bell, Rogers and Telus are able to charge higher prices in most of Canada, where they possess market power.
However, regional carriers like Freedom Mobile and Videotron are increasingly disrupting the wireless market. In regions with wireless disruptors, prices can be 35 to 40 per cent lower.
“This would spur additional price competition in the short term while avoiding the risk of declining network quality in the long term,” said Boswell.
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