The Portuguese Parliament has issued an opinion concluding that the European Commission's proposed Digital Networks Act complies with the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. The opinion, sent to the Council of the European Union on 9 June 2026, supports the legislative package that aims to overhaul EU digital network regulation.
The Digital Networks Act, proposed by the Commission, would replace existing frameworks including the European Electronic Communications Code and the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) Regulation. It seeks to streamline rules for digital infrastructure, spectrum management, and investment incentives. The Portuguese Parliament's positive assessment on subsidiarity and proportionality removes a potential procedural hurdle, as national parliaments can raise objections under the EU's early warning system if they deem a proposal overreaching.
The opinion, now circulated to EU delegations, signals that Portugal sees the Act as appropriately balancing EU-level action with member state competences. The proposal remains under negotiation in the European Parliament and Council, with stakeholders including telecom operators, digital service providers, and consumer groups closely watching its impact on market competition and network investment.