Australia’s competition regulator gives nod to TPG Telecom-Optus deal By Reuters

(Reuters) – Australia’s competition watchdog will not oppose the network sharing deal between TPG Telecom and Singapore Telecommunications’ Optus, the regulator said on Thursday.

Under the deal signed in April, TPG will expand coverage to 2,444 mobile network sites in regional Australia, up from 755, and would have access to Optus’ regional 5G network as it is rolled out.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) began an informal review of the deal in July, seeking views on the likely impact on prices as well as unforeseen aspects of the country’s mobile service infrastructure.

The ACCC found that the agreement was unlikely to substantially lessen competition.

“The agreements will enable TPG to offer better coverage in regional areas, which is likely to enhance its ability to compete over the life of the agreements, improving choice for regional consumers,” ACCC Commissioner Philip Williams said.

“We are pleased with today’s decision and thank the ACCC for considering our regional network sharing agreement, which will bring much-needed competition to rural and regional areas,” TPG Telecom managing director Iñaki Berroeta said in a separate statement.

TPG Telecom expects the expanded network to be operational in early 2025.