Rogers Warns CRTC Internet Label Rules Could Hike Prices

Rogers is pushing back against a proposal that could force internet providers to include standardized labels showing detailed performance metrics.

Speaking to the CRTC during its June 12 hearing on improving how Canadians shop for internet, Rogers argued that consumers are already getting the information they need. This echoes what Telus and Bell have stated as well at the hearings this week.

Rogers said mandatory labels or complex metrics like latency, jitter, and packet loss would confuse customers rather than help them. The company added that most people care about just one thing: speed—and that’s already being disclosed.

“Consumers already know the key facts, like upload and download speeds,” said Dean Shaikh, Senior VP of Regulatory Affairs at Rogers. “There’s no need for more technical jargon.”

Rogers said it posts performance details in its marketing, contracts, and online portals. It also pointed to existing federal rules, such as the Internet Code, which already require clear disclosure of contract terms.

The telecom giant warned that adding new requirements could drive up costs and slow down investment in network upgrades. It claimed that wireless internet, in particular, would be expensive and difficult to measure using the proposed standards—especially in rural areas where Rogers says wireless plays a crucial role in expanding access.

If the CRTC decides to move forward with a broadband label, Rogers said it should only apply in digital pre-sale situations, and not duplicate existing regulations.

The hearing is part of the CRTC’s public hearing which is looking at whether clearer internet labels could help Canadians make more informed choices when shopping for plans.

What do you think? Do we need more info when it comes to shopping for internet? How about just sharing average download speeds based on location and not just a promise of theoretical performance?