PCCW has applied for a judicial review of an Office of the Telecommunications Authority (Ofta) ruling on broadband interconnection.
The application yesterday, in a writ to the High Court, marks the first time a telecoms operator has challenged an Ofta decision through legal channels, and could change the landscape of Hong Kong's broadband market.
'[The court's] determination will have a substantial impact on the future operation of the broadband market in Hong Kong, and will have long-term economic and social benefits,' PCCW's writ said. PCCW is seeking relief from an Ofta determination on terms and conditions of type two broadband interconnection, through which it links its local loop with rival operators.
It is also seeking a ruling on interconnection costs.
In March, PCCW filed two appeals against Ofta's ruling to the Telecoms Appeal board, which arbitrates between operators and Ofta. The board will consider them on June 7.
Neither Ofta nor PCCW would comment on the legal action.