With Indonesia’s XL Axiata-Smartfren Merger, Telecom Consolidation Marches on  – The Diplomat

The wireless telecom industry, particularly in Indonesia, is facing significant consolidation as companies like XL Axiata and Smartfren merge to compete with dominant players like Telkomsel. This trend is driven by the high costs associated with building and maintaining 5G networks, as well as geopolitical concerns regarding foreign influence. The merger between XL Axiata and Smartfren, despite Smartfren’s financial struggles, aims to create a more competitive entity in the market, although the impact on consumers remains uncertain.

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