Abstract: | World telecommunications traffic grew at a rate of over 15% a year in the 1980s, substantially faster than merchandise or service trade. The growth of such traffic is linked closely to the international flow of services and investment. Economizing on time, inventories and financial balances are important considerations in the use of international telecommunications networks. At the same time, network providers are engaging in international alliances to supply a variety of telecommunication services across borders. These alliances will influence strongly the further evolution of national and international regulatory regimes. An international regime more open in the trade of services and movement of investment is called for. |