Hong Kong Network to Refund Roaming Deposits

The Hong Kong based GSM network, SmarTone has decided to remove the international roaming bar for all its customers, no longer requiring them to request the service before traveling overseas. The company will also be returning all the deposits it has collected from those subscribers who were required to make them before being allowed to make international calls. The decision to refund the deposits will cost SmarTone a total of US$12.8 million.

"SmarTone always aims to enhance its service to meet the customers' changing needs. Over the last several years, the lifestyle and travel patterns of Hong Kong people have changed significantly. An ever increasing number of people are travelling to other places, particularly China, for both business and pleasure. We have therefore abolished all registration and deposit requirements for international roaming," said Douglas Li, Chief Executive Officer of SmarTone.

SmarTone is already contacting customers with roaming deposits for the refund. It is also offering customers a refund of IDD deposits if they choose to settle their bills through credit card autopay.'"

Posted to the site on 4th June 2002