LICENSING CONDITIONS IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS

UNCLAS KINGSTON 001598

SIPDIS

STATE FOR WHA/CAR (WBENT),EB/CIP (FINTON)
US Trade Representative FOR (MCHALE, NEUREITER)

E.O. 12958: NA
TAGS: ECPS ETRD JM
SUBJECT: LICENSING CONDITIONS IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
SECTOR

REF: STATE 114687


1. On June 23, Econoff spoke with Maurice Charvis, Director
of Research and Analysis at the Office of Utilities
Regulation (OUR). He provided the following answers to the
questions posed in reftel.


2. Jamaica does not assess any fees in connection with
licensing fixed line services in excess of what is necessary
to cover administrative costs. Administrative costs are
covered by a fee of JD 65,000 (USD 1,055).


3. Jamaica does not impose any capitalization or bonding
requirements for fixed line services, though the OUR is
presently discussing whether or not this should be a
requirement. The OUR has received complaints from angry
consumers whose prepaid calling cards have been made
worthless when the issuing company goes out of business.

4 Jamaica does not impose any build-out investment
requirements for fixed line services.

TIGHE