Argentina: Newcomer to shake up mobile market

Argentina’s authorities are expected to make a pivotal decision this week, which would allow Nextel (part of Cablevisión SA) to join fully in the country’s mobile market. Previewed by Communications Minister OScar Aguad, the decision would create a new competitor for the ruling triumvirate of Telefónica, América Móvil and Telecom Argentina.

“We need more competition in order to put pressure on mobile operators, so they will raise their quality and lower their prices” said Aguad. The decision regarding Nextel’s licence could be taken as early as this month.

Cablevisión, the country’s leading pay TV provider, is owned by media giant Grupo Clarín SA. The powerful company has increased its ambitions for the country’s telecommunications sector ever since the new government of president Mauricio Macri came to power in December last year, preaching a market-friendly agenda.

Full Content: El Financiero

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