After evaluating the deal’s effects on competition and the diversity of Italy’s audiovisual media market, Italy’s communications regulator, AGCOM, has cleared the path for Swisscom’s acquisition of Vodafone Italia.
Swisscom confirmed AGCOM’s decision, noting no objections from the authority; however, Swisscom still awaits two additional approvals to complete the acquisition. Both Italy’s antitrust body, AGCM, and the Ministry for Enterprise and Made in Italy must give their consent.
Related: EU Clears Swisscom’s EUR 8 Billion Bid for Vodafone Italy
The antitrust authority has voiced concerns over potential competition risks posed by Swisscom’s planned acquisition of Vodafone Italia. In their report, regulators cautioned that the deal could establish a dominant player in fixed network services across private, corporate, and public sectors.
Feedback was also gathered from industry competitors. These companies highlighted issues around mobile service frequency allocation and access to physical network infrastructure. Competitors further noted Vodafone Italia’s stronghold in telephone roaming.
Swisscom’s timeline for the Vodafone Italia acquisition remains on track, and is projected to be completed in the first quarter of next year.
Furthermore, Swisscom revealed its intention to acquire Vodafone Italia in late February, finalizing the purchase agreement in mid-March. The Swiss government has confirmed that all prerequisites for the acquisition have been satisfied.
Vodafone Italia will merge with Swisscom’s Italian subsidiary, Fastweb, with Fastweb’s CEO, Walter Renna, appointed to head the combined entity.
Read More: Italian Watchdog Raises Concerns Over Vodafone-Fastweb Merger
The merger leverages Fastweb’s broadband network alongside Vodafone Italia’s mobile network, positioning the new entity as Italy’s second-largest telecom provider, following TIM.
