ZTE to build FTTx network for Entel in Bolivia

ZTE Corp. (H: 0763.HK / A: 000063.SZ) says it is the exclusive winner for the tender from Bolivian operator Entel S.A. to build the first large-scale fiber-to-the-x (FTTx) network in the country. Covering all four of the nation’s regions, the new fiber-optic network will offer fast broadband connectivity to consumers and businesses across the country.

Entel is the largest communications operator in Bolivia, ranking top in the wireless market, the operator asserts. Through the FTTx project that will be launched this year, Entel believes it can greatly improve wired broadband access services provision and hopes to consolidate its position in Bolivia's telecommunications market. When completed, Entel’s FTTx network will cover most areas of Bolivia, reducing the digital divide between different regions.

Entel will deploy ZTE’s ZXA10 C300 full-service access platform to meet the requirements for rapid construction and smooth evolution of networks. The ZXA10 C300 platform supports the smooth upgrade from GPON to next-generation passive optical network (PON) technologies, such as NG-PON and WDM-PON, ZTE asserts.

Zhu Yongxing, general manager of ZTE's fixed network product line, said, "We will help Entel provide better broadband services for customers to achieve sustainable growth and improve its competitive strength in Bolivia. In addition, we will help Entel roll out broadband services to most areas of the country, improving the country’s broadband penetration rate for the benefit of citizens."

Prior to this project, ZTE built the two of the largest GPON networks in South America: the nationwide GPON network of ANTEL in Uruguay and the nationwide FTTH network of ETB in Colombia (see "ANTEL taps ZTE for GPON FTTH in Uruguay").

For more information on FTTx/access systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.