The Ministry of Digital Development is considering tightening the rules for the operation of virtual telecom operators (MVNOs) that use the infrastructure of large telecom companies, according to Kommersant, among the measures discussed are the minimum rate for subscribers of virtual operators at the level of 250 rubles, an increase in the rate of contributions to the reserve of the universal service from 2 to 4%, a ban on critical information infrastructure service and a possible restriction on the use of networks of more Operates one host in one region. The Ministry of Digital Development believes that banking ecosystems, which mostly include MVNOs, subsidize communications in order to attract customers, and offer rates at or below market prices, which can reduce the income of the basic operators and limit their investment options. The big four players generally support the initiatives, noting that the current operating model creates an imbalance. According to TelecomDaily, at the end of 2025, the MVNO subscriber base exceeded 25.5 million SIM cards, an increase of 51% over the year. The total revenue of the sector last year amounted to 81 billion rubles. Virtual operators, in turn, believe that new restrictions will lead to an increase in service costs and a slowdown in technological innovation. In particular, MVNOs invest in the industry through contributions to the universal service reserve, and also test tariff solutions and new services faster. Analysts note that the MVNO market increases competition for subscribers and creates an additional source of income for traditional operators by renting out free capacity and guaranteed payment for traffic.

The Ministry of Digital Development is considering tightening the rules for the operation of virtual telecom operators (MVNOs) that use the infrastructure of large telecom companies, according to Kommersant, among the measures discussed are the minimum rate for subscribers of virtual operators at the level of 250 rubles, an increase in the rate of contributions to the reserve of the universal service from 2 to 4%, a ban on critical information infrastructure service and a possible restriction on the use of networks of more Operates one host in one region. The Ministry of Digital Development believes that banking ecosystems, which mostly include MVNOs, subsidize communications in order to attract customers, and offer rates at or below market prices, which can reduce the income of the basic operators and limit their investment options. The big four players generally support the initiatives, noting that the current operating model creates an imbalance. According to TelecomDaily, at the end of 2025, the MVNO subscriber base exceeded 25.5 million SIM cards, an increase of 51% over the year. The total revenue of the sector last year amounted to 81 billion rubles. Virtual operators, in turn, believe that new restrictions will lead to an increase in service costs and a slowdown in technological innovation. In particular, MVNOs invest in the industry through contributions to the universal service reserve, and also test tariff solutions and new services faster. Analysts note that the MVNO market increases competition for subscribers and creates an additional source of income for traditional operators by renting out free capacity and guaranteed payment for traffic.