WARSAW, Poland-The three Polish wireless operators are unhappy with the terms of the government’s Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) tender and are reported to be considering boycotting the process or taking legal action if the terms are not amended.
Specifically, the operators are decrying a requirement that they provide new 3G operators roaming access on their mobile networks. In addition, the incumbents want the number of 3G licenses reduced from five to four. The government is also requiring the operators to include a blank promissory note with their bidding forms.
In related news, Netia Holdings in Poland, owned 48.2 percent by Sweden’s Telia, said it will not participate in the Polish UMTS tender.
“After thorough consideration of the tender conditions, however, and after obtaining lega and consultants’ opinions, Netia has decided not to establish its own consortium nor to join other consortia which sought Netia’s participation, the company said.
Netia offers fixed-line voice, data and Internet services in Poland. It cited its concerns regarding the lack of clear provisions for roaming with the incumbent operators and the lack of an appropriate Polish interconnection regime in general, in addition to the unattractive business potential of a UMTS investment due to the five licenses to be awarded and the “high license fee,” the company said.
Bids for the process are due 10 November.
