Digicel shreds 100-year C&W monopoly licence to operate in Turks & Caicos

yet another milestone in its dynamic expansion with the announcement that it has been granted a license to establish a GSM cellular network in the newly liberalised market of Turks and Caicos.

This most recent license positions Digicel with operations in 16 Caribbean markets following the Government of Turks & Caicos landmark conclusion in January of a 106-year tecommunications

monopoly held by Cable & Wireless.

“We welcome Digicel and its dynamic approach to business in Turks and Caicos. The benefits Digicel has created in other Caribbean markets will help bring cutting edge technology to the telecommunications sector, while making a significant contribution towards the development of our tourism, financial services and local businesses,” said Jeffrey Hall, Turks & Caicos Minister of Communications.

With an imminent launch in Haiti, Digicel’s new license in Turks & Caicos represents an expansion push and toehold in the northern Caribbean region. Already in 2006 Digicel has moved swiftly on a number of significant opportunities, the most recent being the launch of services in Antigua & Barbuda representing an investment of US$ 6 million in the market.

With the completion of its Cingular Wireless acquisition, Digicel entered negotiations to acquire Bouygues Telecom Cara?be in the French West Indies and finalised plans to roll-out WiMax in Jamaica to offer fixed and mobile broadband communications for voice and data services to 1.4 million customers throughout Jamaica.

“Digicel’s entry into Turks & Caicos marks our continued commitment to extend our reach across the region. We will continue to place nations at the cutting edge of wireless technology and challenge competitors n a manner that drives positive business development,” Colm Delves, Digicel Group CEO.

With an investment in the region at US$1 billion and a staff of 1,500 employees, Digicel said its entry into Turks & Caicos will positively impact the national economy.