MTN pre-qualified for Myanmar telecommunications licence opportunity

MTN Group (MTN), the South African-headquartered international telecommunications operator, through its subsidiary MTN (Dubai), has been pre-qualified to compete for a telecommunications licence in Myanmar.

An announcement was made today by the Myanmar Telecommunications Ministry that MTN was one of 12 operators that have been pre-qualified to submit bids for two nationwide telecommunications licences in the country.

Commenting on the successful pre-qualification, MTN Group President and CEO, Sifiso Dabengwa, said: "We are very excited about the Myanmar opportunity. We have an unparalleled track record in bringing world-class telecommunications services to the 22 countries in which we are currently active. Furthermore, as a South African company successful on the world stage, and operational since 1994, we have direct experience of the challenges of a post-sanctions business environment and the related developmental challenges. We look forward to making a significant contribution in Myanmar."

MTN has partnered in Myanmar with Amara Communications, a subsidiary of IGE, a diversified company with interests that include telecommunications tower construction, SIM card distribution, as well as electricity generation, and oil and gas exploration. MTN has also partnered with M1 Telecom, which is part of M1 Group, an international conglomerate with interests in telecommunications, real estate, fashion and travel.

"We are very confident that, if awarded a licence, we will rapidly and efficiently deploy a world-class network infrastructure and services, as we have successfully done in 22 emerging markets internationally. MTN is strongly positioned to serve the Myanmar market, as we offer a unique blend of world-leading technology and emerging market understanding."