The Regulatory Authority of the Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) has resolved a complaint from Vodafone Qatar Q.S.C. (Vodafone) against Qtel Qatar Q.S.C. (Qtel).
In the complaint, Vodafone alleged that Qtel had been offering retail international call services (IDD) below cost. Providing such calls over a sustained period of time can constitute ‘predatory pricing’ that, if substantiated, would amount to an abuse of dominance and contravention of Article 43 of the Telecommunications Law, and could ultimately undermine the viability of Vodafone’s operations in the State of Qatar.
ictQATAR has conducted an investigation that included filings by both Qtel and Vodafone Qatar and considered the applicable regulatory framework, relevant facts, and, where appropriate international best practices.
In accordance with Article (61) of the Telecommunications Law and Article (3.12) of the Dispute Resolution Rules, ictQATAR concludes that Qtel has not engaged in anti-competitive behaviour with respect to its pricing for international calls.
ictQATAR therefore rejected the claim of Vodafone and considers the matter closed.
