China Telecom’s European division is a step closer to launching a virtual mobile network in the region, agreeing a network sharing deal with UK carrier EverythingEverywhere.
The agreement clears China Telecom Europe to launch services during the first quarter, targeting Chinese nationals and businesses in the UK. EverythingEverywhere claims the network will be the first MVNO established by a Chinese operator outside its domestic market.
China Telecom Europe’s managing director Ou Yan first detailed plans for an MVNO in the UK in August. At the time he told Telecoms Europe.net the network will pave the way for similar agreements in France and Germany, and he subsequently revealed the firm is also eyeing the US.
Yan says EverythingEverywhere’s network coverage and experience in launching MVNO’s were the deciding factors in the UK deal. “We are keen to launch the service in the UK as soon as possible as there is a real gap in the market for the provision of tailored mobile services…aimed at the growing Chinese population,” he comments.
The agreement is the 24th arranged by EverythingEverywhere’s mobile virtual network aggregator Transatel.