Vodafone has said it’s disappointed about the Minister’s decision to “regulate rather than accept an industry solution” that would have delivered lower mobile termination rates sooner.

The Commerce Commission said earlier today that the decision is expected to take effect in "mid-to late September 2010".

In a release sent out to the press, Tom Chignell, GM of Corporate Affairs, said that the New Zealand mobile telecommunications market is dynamic and active,and to further regulate at this point would only interfere in what is proving to be the most competitive part of the overall telco sector.

“Vodafone sees no evidence that there will be material benefits to mobile or fixed-line customers from regulating mobile termination rates,” he said.

Finishing on a positive note, Vodafone said it would still continue to work with the Commission through the process for the months to come.