KINGSTON, Jamaica-Five Caribbean governments have agreed with Cable & Wireless plc, the region’s telecom provider, on a phased dismantling of the company’s monopoly that would bring full competition in about 18 months. In addition, Cable & Wireless withdrew its threat to pull out of St. Lucia at the end of March because of a disagreement with the government there.
The agreement, made with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) comprised of five governments, follows an agreement last year for an early end to Cable & Wireless’ monopoly in Jamaica. Cable & Wireless is also negotiating termination of its exclusive licenses in Barbados.
The U.K.-based operator had threatened to pull out of St. Lucia once its licenses expired at the end of March because it could not negotiate an agreement with the government on liberalization in the country. The operator has said it is committed to liberalization of telecommunications in the Caribbean as long as the process is fair and offers sustainable competition.
OECS is made up of Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts, St. Lucia and St. Vincent.
