Briefs: Telecom reform would open Canada market

The proposed overhaul of the Canadian telecom landscape includes a phased liberalization of ownership rules for foreign companies that are not broadcasters, although the government would retain the authority to review any major equity deals.

The changes, however, would most likely draw interest from major global players such as T-Mobile and Vodafone, analysts told the Toronto Globe.

Other observers, however, said higher costs and low consumer prices dulled Canada's attractiveness as an investment.

The Ottawa government initially appeared inclined to accept the recommendations formally submitted Wednesday by the three-member Telecommunications Policy Review Panel.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International