ComCom Commissioner Ekaterine Imedadze took part in the annual discussion organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and presented to international partners  the current challenges and future plans concerning the Georgian telecommunications market. Issues addressed during the round-table discussions included practical regulation of the telecom industry in the digital age, initiatives to stimulate the digital economy and involvement of the regulatory bodies. Representatives of regulatory, legislative, and private sector organizations from various countries identified the sharing of digital infrastructure and accessibility of services as the main challenge. 

Ekaterine Imedadze discussed the new opportunities and challenges presented to the telecom industry by the post-pandemic digital age. For the Georgian telecom sector to keep up with the global trends, it is highly important to share the international experience. 

According to Ms. Imedadze, it is vital for the telecom market to be open, to implement new innovative services and to achieve technological progress in order to ensure that customers get more benefits. The commissioner’s speech focused on implementation of the 5G network; development of industry players, including small and medium operators; and the significance of digital literacy. Ms. Imedadze further highlighted the importance of media literacy, digital skills, and online safety. 

“As the global economy is becoming increasingly digitalized, we must join our efforts to make connections safe and affordable. New technology creates unprecedented opportunities for innovation. The role of the Government in ensuring the safety of digital services is crucial, although other industry players also have their share of responsibility. The state policy for development of the telecom sector must operate in concert with the industry players working together to offer customers high-quality, innovative, and affordable services. Accessibility of the infrastructure is also important. This means removing barriers for SMEs and supporting them by stimulating the digital business models. Through this approach, the current Georgian regulation model shall set an example for others to follow,” Ekaterine Imedadze stated.