BELIZE CITY – In a strategic move to garner corporate support, Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) presented its case for acquiring Speednet (SMART) to the nation’s leading business organizations during a private consultation session this week. The high-stakes meeting with the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and Belize Business Bureau (BBB) executives follows recent public protests against the proposed telecommunications merger.
BTL executives articulated a vision of enhanced national infrastructure, asserting the consolidation would eliminate redundant assets and establish a more robust telecommunications network. The company projects significant improvements in service reliability and expanded coverage areas as primary benefits of the acquisition.
Countering mounting concerns about reduced market competition, BTL unveiled a comprehensive consumer protection framework. The proposed safeguards include guaranteed price freezes on specific mobile and data services for a three-year period, preservation of existing customer plans, and specialized support programs for senior citizens and prepaid users. Additional commitments feature transparent service policies, regular outage disclosure reports, and a two-year rural expansion initiative.
BTL Chief Executive Ivan Tesucum emphasized the transaction’s alignment with national interests, stating the merger aims to ‘accelerate digital inclusion’ while strengthening the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. The executive framed the acquisition as critical for Belize’s technological advancement and economic development.
The telecommunications giant faces mounting scrutiny from consumer advocacy groups and competitors who warn the merger could establish a market monopoly, potentially leading to increased prices and diminished innovation over time. The business community’s response to BTL’s presentation remains undisclosed as consultations continue.