Telecom Italia and Fastweb Partner for Italy's 5G Expansion

• The network-sharing model enables each operator to access the other's mobile radio infrastructure in designated areas, eliminating redundant buildouts
• The partnership aims to extend high-performing 5G coverage to underserved regions using a sharing approach already adopted in other European countries
• A final contract between TIM and Fastweb is anticipated to be signed in Q2 of this year

Summary

Key Development:

Telecom Italia (TIM) announced a preliminary agreement with Fastweb, Swisscom's Italian subsidiary, to collaborate on mobile access network development in Italy, aimed at accelerating 5G infrastructure deployment. The deal was disclosed on January 7, with a final contract expected in Q2 2025.

Agreement Structure:

The partnership will enable both operators to utilize each other's mobile radio access infrastructure in designated areas, eliminating redundant infrastructure investments. This network-sharing model has already been implemented successfully in other European markets.

Strategic Objectives:

The collaboration seeks to expand high-performance 5G coverage to underserved regions across Italy. By sharing infrastructure, both companies can reduce capital expenditure while improving service coverage more efficiently.

Companies Involved:

• Telecom Italia (TIM): Italy's incumbent telecommunications operator
• Fastweb: Italian telecom unit owned by Swiss telecommunications giant Swisscom

Market Implications:

This deal represents a significant shift toward infrastructure collaboration in Italy's telecommunications sector, potentially setting a precedent for other operators. The partnership could accelerate Italy's 5G rollout timeline while reducing competitive pressures on capital deployment. Infrastructure sharing agreements typically benefit shareholders by improving operational efficiency and reducing network deployment costs.

The arrangement reflects broader European telecommunications industry trends toward consolidation and cooperation, as operators seek to manage the substantial capital requirements of 5G network buildouts while maintaining competitive service offerings. The move may also attract regulatory attention regarding market competition and infrastructure access policies in Italy's telecom sector.