Melita plc today said it would fully cooperate with the competition authority, which has initiated an in-depth investigation into the proposed Melita-Vodafone merger.

“As part of the potential merger between Melita and Vodafone, and following the announcement made on the 24thof May, Melita takes note of the MCCAA’s announcement that it has moved to phase 2 of the process. This phase is an expected next step, in line with applicable laws and regulations, and consists of an in-depth analysis by theMCCAA of the merger's effects on competition. During this phase, Melita will continue to fully cooperate with the competition authority.  

If approved, the merger will have multiple beneficial effects for consumers as well as for the Maltese economy at large. Consumers will have real competition and choice in the market for converged bundles combining Melita’s superfast fixed internet, TV and telephony together with superior mobile coverage on Vodafone’s network. Melita isalso fully committed to delivering European ‘Best in Class’ standards of Customer Service.

The combined entity will have the scale to challenge the incumbent operator and will be able to quickly expand its telecommunication infrastructure. This would lead Malta to become a European leader in very high speed mobile and fixed broadband network coverage,” the company said.