MPT inks infrastructure deal with Sojitz

State-backed fixed line incumbent Myanmar Post and Telecommunications (MPT) has signed an agreement with Japan’s Sojitz Corporation for the upgrade of its infrastructure connecting the cities of Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay and Thilawa Special Economic Zone (SEZ). In a statement from the Japanese firm, Sojitz noted that it would provide overall management of the programme, whilst NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), NEC Corporation and NEC Networks and System Integration Corporation (NESIC) would be responsible for specific elements of the development. The Communication Network Improvement Project, valued at roughly JPY7 billion (USD64 million), is being supported by the Japanese government in the form of an Official Development Assistance (ODA) via the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Under the programme, the four participating companies plan to construct international internet communications infrastructure connecting the cities by 2021, more than tripling capacity and supporting a future 5G launch.