In 2010, 1.26% of Myanmar's population was subscribed to a land-line telephone; 1.24% to a mobile telephone; and 0.2% to the internet. In the past, telecom services were provided solely by the government. But to increase customer choice and promote competition, four licences will be granted to both domestic and foreign investors.

It is expected that Myanmar's Post and Telecommunication Department will be divided into two units, each taking a licence. One of these newly divided units will operate the existing network. The third licence will go to the military. The fourth will be granted to a privately owned operator. All licensees will be able to partner with foreign investors.

In the first three years after the licences are issued, mobile network operators will contribute an estimated $960,000,000 to Myanmar's economy. The majority of this contribution will be invested into network technology. Below, you can see the expected impact of mobile telecommunications in Myanmar in the second year after telecom licences are issued. Read here for more insight on the economic impact of mobile telecommunications in Myanmar.