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Have you ever considered changing cloud providers, but data transfer costs held you back? Imagine a world where switching from one provider to another is done without additional fees. This dream becomes reality thanks to new regulations that give companies long-awaited freedom of choice.
The 3 key points not to miss
ARCEP, the French telecom and network regulatory authority, recently announced a measure that marks a turning point for companies. Since January 16, 2026, data transfers during a change of cloud provider are free. This decision, initially made by ARCEP and confirmed by a government decree, is part of the SREN law and the European data regulation.
Previously, providers could charge for these transfers, which hindered companies’ freedom to change providers. With this new regulation, the power returns to the hands of users, thus eliminating unjustified commercial barriers.
ARCEP did not simply follow European directives. The authority conducted an in-depth investigation, gathering contributions from various stakeholders, including American cloud giants and European players. This study revealed that transfer fees were an abusive practice, given the infrastructure already in place to handle traffic volumes much larger than those of occasional migrations.
ARCEP’s decision is all the more relevant as it is based on a rigorous technical analysis, demonstrating that the incremental cost of a standard transfer is non-existent. Providers are thus held accountable, no longer able to invoke commercial justifications to charge for these services.
However, certain situations may justify additional fees. For example, a client may request a rapid migration with dedicated encrypted links or specific technical support for complex architectures. In these cases, ARCEP allows billing, but only with the client’s prior agreement on a detailed quote.
The consultation conducted by ARCEP showed broad support for free standard transfers. Only a few dissenting voices, without alternative proposals, were heard. This decision is seen as a major advance for cloud regulation, allowing users to freely choose their providers without hidden fees.
ARCEP, or the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Posts, plays a central role in the regulation of telecommunications in France. Created in 1997, it ensures the proper functioning and balance of the telecom market while protecting consumer interests. ARCEP is also responsible for regulating network infrastructures, ensuring fair and non-discriminatory access to communication services.
In the current context of increasing digitalization and growing reliance on cloud services, ARCEP positions itself as a key player in ensuring fair competition and protecting companies from abusive commercial practices. Its recent decision on free data transfers when changing cloud providers is part of this broader mission of regulation and protection of user rights.
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