In recent developments, Thailand’s National Telecom (NT) is engaging in discussions with AIS and True Corporation about selling its mobile and fixed broadband customer bases. These talks, reported by the Bangkok Post, suggest that NT has been negotiating with AIS for over a year. The mobile powerhouse has already submitted a proposition to acquire NT’s broadband and mobile subscribers.
If the deal proceeds, AIS would take ownership of all NT’s subscribers, while maintaining service by leasing access to NT’s network infrastructure. True Corporation is also expected to propose a similar agreement. NT aims to continue serving its customers on a wholesale level post-sale. This strategic move appeals to NT, as the company faces pressure to decrease expenses and reorganize due to significant annual losses from its mobile and broadband units. The high operational costs and competitive pressures have contributed to this financial strain.
NT’s president, Colonel Sanphachai Havanandana, emphasized, “the partnership must be based on a fair basis.” The transaction hinges on approval from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand (NBTC). The telecom regulator previously expressed concerns about NT exiting core service areas, warning of potential market competition impacts.
Additionally, NT is under pressure as its spectrum licenses in the 850MHz, 2100MHz, and 2300MHz bands approach expiration this August. The looming deadline adds urgency to NT’s need to reassess its business model before heading into license renewals.
