Virgin Interested In Hong Kong 3G Network

date: 16 November 2000

Virgin Group is interested in becoming actively involved in Hong Kong's third generation mobile network, following the government's announcement of allocating procedures, the Hong Kong iMail reported, quoting Virgin Atlantic chairman Sir Richard Branson.

Branson was quoted as saying he welcomes the procedures and has received several inquiries from Hong Kong carriers concerning whether Virgin will be interested in participating in the 3G networks.

Branson said after the announcement of a 1 bln usd joint venture with SingTel to form Virgin Mobile (Asia) in May, "we have received a number of serious inquiries from carriers in Hong Kong looking to carry us on their networks."

He added that the commitment of the Hong Kong Telecommunications Authority to "see operators like us involved in the delivery of services" has prompted Virgin to "further appreciate the importance of Hong Kong as a key consumer of mobile telecom services."

The government said on Tuesday the open network requirement will require successful 3G bidders to open up part of their 3G network capacity, around 30-50 pct, to other service provicders, a move designed to increase competition at the content and service level.

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