What major change occurred in the telecommunications industry in Georgia during the 1990s?

During the 1990s, the telecommunications industry in Georgia underwent significant changes primarily driven by deregulation, which led to an open-market competition environment. This shift aimed to promote competition among telecommunications providers, breaking down monopolistic structures that had previously dominated the industry. The deregulation allowed new entrants to the market, leading to diverse options for consumers and encouraging innovation in services and pricing structures.

This change was in stark contrast to earlier practices where the industry was heavily regulated, and a few companies maintained control over service delivery. The push for deregulation aligned with broader national trends in the telecommunications sector, ultimately leading to improved services and lower costs for consumers in Georgia.

While other options mention aspects such as increased regulation or fixed rates for services, these reflect the previous regulatory framework rather than the transformative shift that defined the industry in the 1990s. The unregulated environment facilitated competition, allowing the market to set prices and encourage better service delivery among providers.