Dtac welcomes extension of 900-MHz bid decision deadline

Thailand’s Dtac has welcomed the decision by regulator NBTC to extend the submission deadline for applying to participate in an upcoming 900-MHz auction if no bids come in today.

The deadline extension will allow Dtac to complete its feasibility study before making a final decision on whether to participate.

Dtac is the only operator to pick up bid documents for the upcoming auction by the deadline yesterday, and rivals AIS and True Corp have already indicating that they will not be participating.

Dtac was expected to use the spectrum to replace its expiring 850-MHz spectrum and ensure continuity of service for customers still using the spectrum. The feasibility study is evaluating whether the 900-MHz spectrum is required, as well as the criteria and procedures of the license being auctioned.

The operator will now have until October 16 to decide whether to participate in the bid, which will be held later in the month. The date will be October 20 if there are multiple participants, and October 28 if there is only one bidder.

The NBTC recently rejected a request from Dtac for a remedy period allowing it to use its expiring spectrum now its license has expired, but the court had issued an emergency injunction while a hearing on the matter was before the courts.