The share of subscribers canvassed by internet service providers in Germany by late1998 can be taken from the chart. In total, the number of subscribers was 8 million at that time. It is expected to rise to 9 million by the end of 1999. The regulatory framework in Germany guarantees easy market entry and stable conditions for investment. There are no restrictions on the number of licences or licensees in the fixed network.
Licence fees are moderate.
A well-functioning interconnection regime with low, attractive rates has been established. All network operators are entitled to obtain origination and termination services nationwide. Unbundled access to the local loop is guaranteed, as well as full number portability. A uniform numbering space is available for all operators. All this has happened simultaneously with the beginning of competition on January 1, 1998.