Hutch 4G launch delayed on competitor tactics
Hutchison Telecommunications in Colombo is in a fix as the launch of its 4G product has been delayed by the release of equipment at the Colombo Port allegedly due to crass bureaucracy by the telecom regulator instigated by a local mobile operator, sources close to the company said.
They told the Business Times that these delays were due to the influence of this local mobile operator which is eying Hutchison in a possible acquisition. As they want to enhance their spectrum, this mobile operator had approached Hutchison some time ago, but the deal wasn’t sweet enough for the latter.
This powerful operator is in close touch with the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) and Hutchison needs TRC’s signature to get the equipment released from the port, according to the sources. TRC hasn’t explained the delay but promised Hutchison that it’ll be done, they said.
“The equipment is lying at the Port since January 6 and Hutchison is paying demurrage to the ship owner for its delayed operations of loading/unloading. Many of their customers are awaiting the 4G launch,” an informed source close to the company told the Business Times. 4G is the fourth generation of broadband cellular network technology, succeeding 3G. They are now commonplace, based on technologies called Mobile WiMAX and LTE (Long-Term Evolution). On Tuesday, Hutchison had a meeting with the TRC, but nothing had come of it, the sources told the Business Times. It is learnt that certain directors at TRC are backing this powerful operator’s move.
According to latest statistics, Mobitel has the ‘Fastest Broadband on 4G. This was after TRC ranked Mobitel as the ‘Fastest Broadband Network’ on 4G based on the latest speed tests conducted by them Last October. “Compared to the other telecommunication service providers, in terms of fastest and average speeds, Mobitel is the best, reflecting the superiority of its network. This affirmation of its credentials reflects Mobitel 4G’s position as the undisputed fastest network in the country and renders it as the preferred internet service provider in the country,” TRC asserted in a media release. Attempts at contacting the said mobile operator or TRC officials weren’t successful.