It said if the second and third largest operators in terms of subscribtion numbers -- True and DTAC -- are allowed to merge, it would create a duopoly in the telecom industry and the consumers would definitely be taken advantage. It alleged that the monopoly of retailing and wholeselling by the conglomerate had caused consumer goods prices to rise, causing suffering to the people. Earlier, the new NBTC held a focus group public hearing among those related to the telecom industry and business partners of telecom operators. The NBTC has yet to listen to the opinions of academics and consumer groups in two more focus group hearings. The letter warned that if the NBTC approved the merger, it would be condemned as the one who had tainted the history of Thai telecom industry.

Source: The Nation Bangkok May 26, 2022 22:13 UTC