Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Sterlite Technologies, Aksh Optifibre, Finolex Cables, Ncell, Smart Telecom, Axiata, Spectrlite UK, among others.
China Extends Anti-Dumping Duties on Indian Optical Fiber
China will continue imposing anti-dumping duties on single-mode optical fiber imported from India for another five years beginning August 14, 2026. China’s Commerce Ministry said its review found that ending the measures could result in continued or renewed dumping and potentially harm the domestic optical fiber industry. Duty rates will remain between 7.4 percent and 30.6 percent for Indian manufacturers. Sterlite Technologies will face a 7.4 percent rate, while Aksh Optifibre and Finolex Cables will each face duties of 30.6 percent. China originally introduced anti-dumping measures on Indian single-mode optical fiber in 2014 and extended them in 2020. The latest decision keeps the trade restrictions in place through 2031.
Ncell-Smart Telecom Deal Faces Renewed Scrutiny in Nepal
Nepal’s telecom sector is facing renewed scrutiny over transactions involving Ncell and Smart Telecom, with questions surrounding ownership, taxation, licenses and telecom infrastructure. Smart Telecom’s license expired in April 2023, after which its towers, network equipment and other infrastructure became government property under Nepalese regulations. Meanwhile, Axiata’s planned exit from Nepal and proposed sale of its stake in Ncell to Spectrlite UK for $50 million attracted regulatory attention. A government committee subsequently raised concerns about the transaction, including whether it was conducted at arm’s length and potential cross-holding involving Ncell and Smart Telecom. The developments have intensified debate over telecom asset ownership, regulatory compliance and the handling of disputed sector transactions.
Taiwan Slows Mobile Internet During Defense Exercise
Taiwan temporarily slowed mobile internet services to 256 Kbps in Taipei and six other regions during its annual Han Kuang military exercises. The measure simulated communications conditions that could occur during a potential conflict and tested the resilience of civilian communications infrastructure. The temporary slowdown significantly reduced mobile internet performance, limiting services largely to basic text-based communication rather than normal broadband and 5G usage. The exercise formed part of wider preparedness activities involving transportation, hospitals and other civilian systems. Taiwan’s government used the drill to assess how society and critical services could function under communications disruptions. The exercise highlights the strategic importance of resilient telecommunications networks during emergencies and potential military contingencies.
SHAFANA FAZAL