# Network Tower Sharing Analysis in Greece: A Structure-Conduct-Performance Approach
## 4 Discussion and Conclusions
To achieve this goal, expanding private investment in mobile and fixed networks--particularly in 5G standalone (SA) and fiber infrastructures of critical importance. In parallel, fostering the consolidation of industry players and infrastructure can drive efficiency and scalability, creating an environment where innovation can thrive. Strategic focus areas should include the development of multi-shared platforms for Radio Access Network (O-RAN) sharing, advancements in edge computing, and the growth of IoT ecosystems. These technological advancements will not only enhance network performance, but also pave the way for transformative digital services that can boost economic growth and global competitiveness. Regarding government policies, it is recommended that the state actively promote infrastructure sharing among all digital stakeholders--including internet service providers,-telecom operators, and network owners--through the development of appropriate legislation. Encouraging such collaboration can lead to more efficient resource utilization, reduced operational costs, and improved connectivity, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike. Additionally, facilitating cross-border mergers and operations that enhance investment in telecom infrastructure should be a key priority. Given the capital-intensive nature of telecommunications, regulatory frameworks should support consolidation efforts that drive technological advancements and network expansion. In this context, both EU and national merger clearance regulations should be aligned with broader innovation and investment objectives to ensure that policy decisions foster long-term industry growth and competitiveness. Furthermore, the merger clearance process should be expedited to prevent unnecessary delays that could hinder market development and investment flows. At the same time, competition law enforcement (ex-post) should be reinforced under specific circumstances to prevent market abuses while maintaining a fair and dynamic competitive environment. This approach aligns with the recommendations outlined in the [PERSON] report on EU competitiveness, which emphasizes the need for a regulatory framework that balances market efficiency, innovation, and consumer welfare [35]. Since there is a growing social demand for high-speed and high-quality ubiquitous networks, it is also recommended that the states encourage infrastructure sharing, as long as it does not harm competition. While passive sharing is widely accepted, active sharing is also becoming more common; however, it should be reinforced. Enabled by national legislation, agreements should evolve to include deeper network and spectrum sharing, although we are aware that this may pose new regulatory and competition challenges. In many cases, operators should be encouraged to establish active-sharing agreements without prior regulatory approval but must notify authorities. Some agreements, however, require regulatory oversight. For the moment, 32 OECD countries allow RAN sharing, while 27 permit spectrum-sharing, sometimes requiring approval, which is a fact that lags network development. Core network sharing is allowed in 24 OECD countries. In that respect, specific national developments include Japan, which revised its guidelines on infrastructure sharing in 2022, and the Netherlands, which issued guidelines in 2021 to clarify network-sharing regulations [36]. In addition, it is recommended that states set cut-off dates for older technologies in order to accelerate the transition to more advanced networks. This approach is expected to enable the phase out of outdated systems and to promote investment in modern shared infrastructures. In parallel, it is recommended that states and EU policy makers encourage the strengthening of EU-based telecom equipment and software providers for succeeding in the so-called EU's open strategic autonomy.