Islamabad (TDI): The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is moving forward with its Phase II Merger Review of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited’s (PTCL) proposed acquisition of 100% shareholding in Telenor Pakistan (Private) Limited (TP) and Orion Tower Private Limited (OT).
The ongoing review aimed at assessing the merger’s potential impact on market competition.
The hearing was chaired by CCP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu with members Salman Amin and Abdul Rashid Sheikh present.
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In the hearing, Mian Sami-ud-Din represented Wateen Telecom. He raised concerns about the merger’s potential impact on competition in key sub-markets. It includes tower co-location, fabrication, and the sale of the Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU).
He argued the Commission should ensure that all aspects of competition, particularly in these sub-markets, are carefully examined before making any decision.
Jazz Telecom represented by counsel Khalid Ibrahim. He voiced concerns over PTCL potentially gaining a dominant position in the market.
He proposed that both pre- and post-merger conditions be applied, including ensuring that PTCL allows other mobile operators to roam on its network under fair and negotiated terms.
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Additionally, Jazz recommended that PTCL offers non-discriminatory access to its infrastructure, fiber networks, and spectrum on transport terms to avoid market imbalance.
On the other hand, PTCL’s legal team, led by senior counsel Rahat Kaunain Hassan defended the merger’s merits.
She stated that it would lead to fostered efficiency, and economies of scale. This contributes to the government’s Digital Pakistan initiative by transforming the IT and telecom ecosystem.
The CCP raised pertinent questions to all parties, including the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), to clarify key issues related to market competition, regulatory compliance, and potential impacts on consumers.
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The Commission also requested additional data from PTCL and Telenor to assist in its evaluation of the merger.
The hearing will continue today as the CCP progresses its review of this significant acquisition that could reshape Pakistan’s telecom landscape.
