That's like what I suspect. Some hidden arbitrary regulations / monopolies and all that stuff that prevent any individual/small business from entering networking business.

Here, in Russia broadband internet spreaded like fire by efforts of small companies and even local non-commercial communities all over the country as soon as it become something interesting for regular person. All legislations and licensing was introduced only after the market was saturated. Of course large holdings eventually bought many small businesses, but situation is far from monopoly. Still, it is not a big problem to get a license and start provider business today if you could find a place that have no connection and want to make some money.