Tough competition in Transnistrian region mobile communications market

Tough competition is being noted on the left bank of the Nistru, among mobile network operators, who fight for coverage areas and essential income, writes the region’s press, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. Although the eastern districts of Moldova have a small surface, with a small population, the income of “Interderstrcom”, until recently the sole mobile service provider, rises to $30 million annually. Currently, there are 4 GSM operators competing in the telecommunications market of the Transnistrian region, and the region’s administration must decide on the distribution of band frequencies. The four operators are “Mobigrup”, led by businessman Victor Gusan, owner of the “Sheriff” store network, “Mobilait”, led by former Tiraspol leader Igor Smirnov and two other shareholders, the “Play” company, and “Moldcell”, which also operates on the right bank of the Nistru. Regional telecommunications experts believe that Smirnov and Gusan have small chances at obtaining frequencies, the main contender being the “Moldcell” mobile operator. It is assumed that the market will be split into two, at least, and the scales will tip over towards the provider that will offer communication possibilities at low prices, including for roaming services.