Thai Regulator Approves Draft Plans for 3G License Auction

Thailand's telecoms regulator, the NTC has approved a draft procedure for the long-planned 3G license auctions. ­If approved, the the actions are expected to take place by the end of this year, with the winning networks anticipated to formally launch services in the second half of 2010.

The regulator plans to hold a public consultation on the proposals at the end of this month. The proposals should switch the regulatory regime from a percentage of revenues to a fixed fee with lower spectrum costs.

The incumbent operators are already running small trials of 3G networks over their existing GSM radio spectrum, while CDMA operator, CAT Telecom is seeking an overseas investor to assist in 3G rollout plans.

The regulator is also planning to auction of a series of WiMAX licenses. A recent report suggested that the licenses should be offered on a regional basis. The auction of the licenses is not expected to happen until after the 3G license auctions, which should also give the regulator time to refarm the WiMAX spectrum from its current users.

On the web: National Telecommunications Commission

Posted to the site on 11th September 2009