AMSTERDAM, Dec 17 (Reuters) - Former state telecoms companyKPN must share its networks with competitors for atleast three more years, the Dutch telecommunications regulatorsaid on Thursday, a move aimed at stimulating competition in thesector.
The AFM said its final decision will provide long-termsecurity for investors and save KPN's competitors and ultimatelyconsumers a collective 250 million euros ($271 million).
"This decision is good news for consumers and will ensurethere will be several providers," AFM board member Hen Don said.
KPN will continue to be able to compete with players such asTele2, Liberty Global's cable operatorZiggo and Vodafone by investing in fibre optic networks,it said.
AFM will facilitate discussions with KPN about giving accessto competitors so they can "provide faster, better and cheapertelecommunication services to consumers and companies."
The Dutch market currently relies on two main networks, KPN's and Ziggo's, for all internet, television and telephonetraffic. More are needed to create healthier competition, AFMsaid.
The decision follows a long-running negotiation with theEuropean Commission, which gave its support in November.($1 = 0.9223 euros) (Reporting By Anthony Deutsch; Editing by Keith Weir)