Denmark could be the latest country to join France in forcing Apple to open up its iTunes system to rivals - but only if market forces don't sort out the problem first.

French law makers are considering a Digital Rights Management bill which would force Apple and others to make their products interoperable. Apple has blasted the move as state-sponsored piracy.

Ars Technica reports that Maersk and TDC, two of Denmark's largest firms which both operate online music stores, are backing the move.

Danish Minister of Culture Brian Mikkelsen is looking at the issue but has made no decision yet.

A spokesman for the ministry told El Reg: "It is under consideration. The minister will look at the situation in the fall of 2007 and see if the market has fixed itself or if there is a need for action." ®