The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (Ofta) has struck back at PCCW's claims that its policy is hindering the company's investment plans.
'What and where and when to invest are just commercial decisions,' Ofta secretary-general Au Man-ho said. 'Telecommunications is a long-term investment that does not yield immediate returns. If someone is not investing, he may not be able to launch an advanced service.'
Mr Au was responding to a statement by PCCW chairman Richard Li Tzar-kai on Monday that the firm's dominant carrier status left it with little interest in investing in Hong Kong. Being classified as a dominant carrier means PCCW needs to apply for an Ofta exemption when offering discounts because of fears that they may reduce competition.
Ofta will consult later this month on PCCW's application to abolish its dominant status.
