Such a provision is contained in the draft law on the access of providers of public electronic communications networks to real estate and the use of infrastructure. The law aims to expand very high capacity networks throughout the country, including in rural areas. The draft has been approved by the Government and will be submitted to the Parliament.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization Eugeniu Osmokescu said at the cabinet meeting that the draft fits into Moldova’s European integration reform agenda:
“The main objective is to reduce the costs and time needed to deploy electronic communications networks, including high capacity networks”.
Roofs, pipes and poles
Among the key measures is increased access to existing infrastructure. The draft law introduces clear rules obliging infrastructure and land owners – including public authorities and operators from other sectors – to grant access to network providers on fair and non-discriminatory terms.
Operators will be able to use poles, pipelines and other infrastructure to lay networks, including very high capacity networks. However, parties are required to negotiate access terms in good faith. In rural areas, owners of commercial buildings will be obliged to allow the installation of equipment, including on rooftops, if no alternative technical solutions are available and this does not jeopardize the safety of the infrastructure.
The law also defines cases where access may be denied – for example, for technical reasons, lack of space, national security considerations or protection of critical infrastructure.
In addition, the law prohibits the granting of exclusive rights to host networks, which should stimulate competition and ensure open access to the market.
Some of the provisions will enter into force immediately after publication, while the most complex measures will begin to apply on January 1, 2028.
