This section features background information and resources relevant to the current research theme. It includes resources produced by WDR and external sources and is organised by regions and topics. An archive of resources recommended in previous research cycles is also available along with news from the WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News Service.
Papua New Guinea: Government to Sell Half of State-Owned Operator Print E-mail
Friday, 05 September 2008

Papua New Guinea will sell 50% of its state-owned mobile operator to a consortium of companies.

Earlier in 2008, the government had denied plans to privatise PNG Telikom's B Mobile unit, despite the success of the Irish-owned Digicel mobile phone company, which entered the country’s mobile sector in 2007.

PNG State Enterprises Minister Arthur Somare said, "this joint venture is very much better than the two previous unsuccessful privatisation efforts involving Telikom PNG, with a larger $US 42.15 million equity investment for 50% of B Mobile."

"With B Mobile coming under separate ownership and management, Telikom PNG will be able to focus on expansion of its core activities," he added.

The government will sell half of B Mobile to a consortium of companies made up of US-based Trilogy International Partners (20%), General Enterprises Management (GEMS) (20%), PNG's National Superannuation Fund (5%) and Nambawan Super (5%).

GEMS already owns 55% of GreenCom, PNG's third mobile operator, which is yet to start offering service. Henry Kissinger is a director on the Hong Kong-based GEMS board.

Source: Asia Pulse - WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News.