Cambodian mobile operator Smart Axiata has announced that it will invest more than USD90 million in its wireless network in 2021. The funds will be spent on expanding and improving its infrastructure to ensure stable and fast mobile broadband connectivity for subscribers across the country. The main focus of the infrastructure improvement programme will be on enhancing the 4G LTE network for users nationwide while ensuring the network is ready for a major 5G upgrade once the government authorises the rollout of the technology.
Smart Axiata currently operates approximately 3,000 network sites across Cambodia, providing LTE coverage to 91.5% of the population. By the end of this year, the firm plans to add a further 350 sites, while existing network sites will also receive substantial capacity upgrades. Smart also revealed that it will gradually shut down its 3G network during the course of 2021 by refarming the residual frequency spectrum used for 3G to 4G services.
‘Investing in critical infrastructure and constantly improving our service for our customers have always been central to Smart’s operations here in Cambodia, and this year is no different, despite the very real challenges of the pandemic,’ said Smart Axiata CEO Thomas Hundt, adding: ‘These challenges also drive us to ensure our customers can rely on our network to keep them in touch with others and to be productive, even as they follow social distancing protocols during these difficult times. In the coming months, customers will see significant improvements in our network, while we will be able to deliver better online learning, gaming, video, music and overall internet experiences.’