Digicel Wins Mobile License in Panama

Digicel Central America has won a competitive bid process for a license to operate a GSM mobile network in Panama. The auction took place on Wednesday, May 7th, with Digicel bidding US$86 million. Digicel's win for a mobile license in Panama is the latest milestone for the company's expansion efforts in Central America. Digicel currently operates in El Salvador and has plans to launch in Honduras later this year.

Digicel also expects to contribute to the local Panamanian economy, employing approximately 300 people directly in its operations and leading to the indirect employment of 1000 people.

There are currently two mobile operators in Panama, Cable and Wireless plus Telefonica. According to figures from the Mobile World database, the country ended last year with an estimated 2.5 million subscribers - representing a population penetration level of 75%.

Speaking from Panama City, Colm Delves, Digicel Group CEO, said, "Panama is a very exciting win for us and solidifies our presence in the region. Just as in Honduras and El Salvador, there is huge potential for growth in this mobile market and Digicel looks forward to becoming a strong competitor by delivering superior technology and through our passion for providing the best mobile phone service to customers."

April 2008 marked Digicel's one year anniversary of its launch in El Salvador, the Caribbean company's first operation in Central America. In its first 12 months, Digicel increased its initial investment to US$190 million and now provides more than 95% population coverage to reach communities previously underserved by competitors.

Digicel Central America Holdings Limited is owned by Denis O'Brien, as is Digicel Group Limited and Digicel South Pacific Limited.

Posted to the site on 8th May 2008