Telecom operators in Pakistan, including Wateen and Jazz, have raised concerns about PTCL’s acquisition of Telenor Pakistan, warning it could lead to reduced competition and increased market dominance. They called for regulatory safeguards to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure a balanced telecom landscape in the country.
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL) has secured a $400 million deal with an IFC-led consortium for the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers. This strategic move is set to enhance PTCL’s market presence and contribute significantly to the growth of Pakistan’s telecom sector.
PTCL seeks regulatory approval for its acquisition of Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers, with the deal set to reshape control over key telecommunications assets in Pakistan.
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is conducting a Phase II review of the proposed merger between PTCL and Telenor Pakistan. The review focuses on potential benefits, such as improved network coverage and service quality, while addressing concerns about reduced competition and capacity asymmetry in Pakistan’s telecom market.
Telenor Pakistan has launched 4G services in Hunza and upgraded its network in Gilgit and Skardu, enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. This initiative aims to boost local tourism, expand e-commerce, and support economic growth, positioning the region as a digital hub in Pakistan.
She Loves Tech launched its Islamabad round, co-hosted by Telenor Velocity and organized by CIRCLE Women Association. Held at Telenor Pakistan’s Campus ‘345’, the event featured ten women-led tech startups competing for a spot in the National Finale, offering mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Telenor Asia, parent of Grameenphone, has urged the Bangladesh government to fully restore mobile internet services. Major telecom operators reported a shutdown of 3G and 4G networks ordered by local authorities, leaving only 2G services available. Previous internet blackouts and social media restrictions have raised concerns about safety and connectivity.
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have launched the “Digital Inclusion: Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth Project” to empower over 2.35 million marginalized women and youth in Bangladesh, focusing on enhancing digital literacy, skills, and creating a safe online environment.
Telenor Velocity and Google have partnered to nurture tech startups in Pakistan through the Google Cloud Startup Competition 2024. This initiative aims to drive innovation in AI, fintech, and other sectors, offering winners a cash prize and networking opportunities, thereby enhancing Pakistan’s tech ecosystem and entrepreneurial landscape.
