Analysis and evaluation the role of independent regulatory body in providing a competitive environment in the ICT sector

The article discusses the issues of ICT sector regulation in Azerbaijan and its neighboring countries, comparatively analyzes the current situation in this field, reveals the existing shortcomings and shows ways of their solution. The results of the study show that, in the countries where the ICT sector is regulated by the Independent Regulatory Body, the competitive environment in the sector is more effective. Based on the assessments, it was determined that the correlation between the Regulatory Sub-Index and the Competition Sub-Index is positive and the dependence is higher than average (r = 0.6969). However, it should also be noted that while the existence of an Independent Regulatory Body in the field of ICT is important for competition in the sector, it is not absolute. The necessity of creating an Independent Regulatory Body to improve the competitive environment in our country has been substantiated. With the creation and effective operation of such a regulator, the country's position in the ICT sector regulation rating will be increased.