Thai Telecommunications Operators Likely to Scrap Fees.

Byline: Kanchana Pleumjit

Sep. 6--Deposits, installation and registration fees for fixed-line and mobile telephones are likely to be scrapped permanently, according to industry executives.

The state-owned Telephone Organisation of Thailand plans to extend its free-installation marketing campaign until the end of this year, according to chairman Supachai Pisitvanich.

Free installation was likely to be made permanent in the future, as people were getting used to the idea and new customers would be upset if charges returned, he said, adding that the promotion had been effective in attracting more users.

Vichaow Rakpongpairoj, managing director of TelecomAsia, the Bangkok fixed-line operator, agreed that free installation had resulted in a sharp rise in the company's sales. Over the first six months of this year, TA signed up 140,000 new subscribers, the same number as it recorded all last year.

However, Mr Vichoaw said that free installation was just one part of TA's marketing campaign. Other elements included free PCT handsets and an Internet package.

Yingyong Akrajindanond, vice-president of cellular operator Advanced Info Service Plc, said AIS was also likely to continue waiving its registration fee and 4,000-baht deposit for new subscribers, due to greater competition.