Nokia to expand Shanghai MCC GSM network in China with a deal worth almost USD 40 million

Nokia has signed an agreement valued at almost USD 40 million, with Shanghai Mobile Communications Company for the expansion of its GSM 1800 network in China. The deal sees the mobile network capacity increase by a million subscribers and this phase of the network is expected to be operational next year. Nokia will supply and install GSM 1800 base stations.

The agreement was completed with one of Nokia's joint ventures in China, Beijing Nokia Hangxing Telecommunications Systems Co., Ltd. Nokia and Shanghai MCC have been working together on the advanced mobile network since 1997.

“Shanghai Mobile is committed to constructing comprehensive and complete coverage network with mature technology and solid structures to provide a full range of services which can generate good revenues. We will actively import GPRS and 3G mobile communication networks, and are committed to the construction of broadband Internet data networks to provide end-users with complete information service solutions,” said a spokesperson for Shanghai MCC.

“Penetration rates are continuing to grow significantly in China and Nokia's technology will give Shanghai MCC the opportunity to meet the future market demand for high-capacity mobile services. We are pleased to extend our co-operation with Shanghai MCC, and we are continuing in taking the lead in bringing real benefits to consumers," said Antti Wäre, Vice President, System Business, Nokia (China) Investment Co., LTD.

Nokia is committed to a long-term development and preferred partnership in China. With innovative technology, Nokia has continuously strengthened its market position as a leading supplier of mobile and fixed network system and mobile phones in China. China is Nokia’s second largest market in the world. Nokia’s investment in China has surpassed USD 1 billion. Nokia has established over 20 representative offices, seven joint ventures, one wholly owned manufacturing plant and one R&D center, with over 5,000 employees in China.

Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is one of the most broadly held companies in the world with listings on six major exchanges.

Shanghai Mobile Communication Corporation is one of the biggest Telecommunication Network operators in China with supporting around 260,000, end-users and an annual income of around RMB 5, 000,000,000. With the development of the Telecommunication sindustry, all kinds of services are implemented through the network. Shanghai Mobile will gradually transfer from specific operations to a full range of service operations over the coming years.

Further information:
Communications Department
Nokia Networks
Tel.+ 358 9 5113 8193
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com

www.nokia.com