Network operator 3 Mobile has sided with eBay in calling for a reduction in mobile broadband roaming charges.

The service provider and the online auction site are calling for the European Commission to set a cap of 3c (2.6p) or less on wholesale data charges in a bid to encourage more consumers to use mobile broadband when they visit the continent.

David Dyson, chief executive of 3 Mobile, remarked: "A fear of high data roaming charges forces them to limit their internet use the moment they leave the UK."

High data costs for consumers are an inevitable result of high wholesale rates, he added.

Maximum limits on roaming charges for calls and texts have been in place for some years and the EU is looking to implement similar measures for mobile broadband usage.

Under its plans, the wholesale cost of internet browsing will fall to 30c per MB from next July, before dropping further to around 10c in 2014. Costs for end users are typically about three times higher than these amounts.

While the majority of network operators have been cautious about the plans, 3 Mobile has been a vocal proponent of the need for lower roaming charges for data.

A spokesman from the carrier told the Daily Telegraph: "There is still a massive difference between domestic and international roaming rates. If the European Commission wants to introduce competition it needs to bring them down a lot further."

The call for cheaper roaming throughout Europe from eBay and 3 Mobile came shortly after research from the online retailer predicted a significant growth in sales via its mobile platform this year.

By the end of 2011, eBay expects to generate almost billion (£3.1 billion) from mobile commerce, around 25 per cent higher than the forecast it made earlier this year.

Sales via mobile devices now account for more than ten per cent of eBay purchases in the UK.

Add a comment

Comment

Your name

Your e-mail address

Comments (0)