Telikom PNG to acquire local ISP Datec

Papua New Guinea’s state-owned fixed line incumbent Telikom PNG has announced its acquisition of local alternative internet service provider Datec PNG, according to Islands Business. While the deal remains subject to regulatory approvals, Telikom’s chairman Mahesh Patel was cited as saying that he viewed it as being very important for his company as it embarks on plans to restructure its communications business towards retail, while its wholesale business will be transferred to a new state-owned enterprise, PNG DataCo Limited. It is understood that Datec, which is currently a subsidiary of Steamships Trading Company, will form an integral part of Telikom’s strategy to expand its internet and data businesses providing converged technology solutions. ‘The acquisition [of Datec] is a milestone for our customers and good value for our shareholders, the seven million people of Papua New Guinea,’ Patel said of the deal.