Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 14, The European Union officially brought the Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA) into force yesterday, aiming to accelerate the deployment of high-speed fibre and 5G networks across Member States. The legislation addresses long-standing obstacles for operators, including regulatory complexity, high costs, and fragmented access to infrastructure. Despite recent momentum, Europe has lagged behind other regions in full-fibre and gigabit-capable network rollout, due to high investment requirements, gaps in key markets, legacy networks, regulatory complexity, and slower adoption by customers.

“The Gigabit Infrastructure Act is a milestone for Europe’s digital transformation,” said a European Commission spokesperson. “By removing bottlenecks and making it easier for operators to deploy fibre and 5G networks, we are ensuring that every citizen and business can benefit from fast, future-proof connectivity.”

The GIA targets structural bottlenecks at a crucial moment. Demand for high-capacity networks is rising with AI, cloud computing, remote work, and other data-driven applications. Operators have struggled to expand infrastructure, particularly in urban areas with congested public works or in regions where permitting and planning processes are slow.

A key feature of the act is the simplification of deployment procedures. It promotes digitalised permit applications, improved access to data on existing infrastructure, and coordination with planned civil works. The legislation also encourages infrastructure sharing, allowing operators to use existing networks instead of building redundant systems. This approach is expected to reduce both costs and deployment timelines for fibre and 5G networks.

The GIA also aims to future-proof Europe’s building stock. New constructions and major renovations will be required to include fibre-ready in-building infrastructure. This measure aligns with the EU’s ongoing building renovation initiatives and ensures that high-speed connectivity is available from the outset.

Implementation of the GIA will be overseen by the European Commission, in cooperation with Member States and the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC). While most provisions take effect immediately, some will phase in over the coming months to allow authorities and operators to adapt to the new requirements.

Industry analysts expect the GIA to create a more predictable regulatory environment, accelerating fibre and 5G rollout, lowering deployment costs, and helping close the digital divide. By tackling procedural and structural obstacles, the act is intended to make Europe more competitive in digital infrastructure and ensure reliable, high-capacity networks for future economic and social needs.

Overall, the Gigabit Infrastructure Act is a strategic effort to strengthen Europe’s connectivity, support digital transformation, and address the growing demand for fast, resilient networks across all Member States.