| Honduras is again seeking an investor in state-owned telecommunications operator Hondutel, five years after it rejected a bid from Telefonos de Mexico (Telmex).
"We are looking for a minority international strategic partner," Finance Minister Hugo Noe said.
Telmex was the only bidder for 51% of Hondutel in 2000, when it offered US$ 106 million for the stake. The government rejected Telmex's bid the following year because it was considered too low.
Hondutel is the leading fixed-line phone provider in the country and one of two profitable state-owned companies. Its assets are worth around US$ 600 million and the company intends to start offering mobile services soon.
Congress is currently considering legislation to open the international long-distance market to competitors. This segment accounted for about 60% of Hondutel's revenue last year. Noe said the government is still deciding how to go about selling a stake in Hondutel.
Source: Reuters - WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News |