BT goes for growth in Latin America

UK-based BT Group PLC (LSE: BT.A) is planning to make a series of investments in Latin America, with the aim of doubling its telecoms business in key countries in the region over the next three years.

BT already serves more than 1,300 customers in Latin America, including multinational companies in more than 20 countries, and sees huge potential for growth, even in the face of the unstable global economy. BT says its research has identified an addressable market for the company in Latin America of $18.5 billion as of 31 March 2011, which is growing at 7% per annum.

To achieve that goal, BT will extend the coverage of its networks in the region by increasing the number of its MPLS points of presence by around 20% and by launching Ethernet services in 21 new cities. By combining these with satellite capabilities which currently connect 37,000 sites, together with its recently improved data center infrastructure, BT says it will be able to offer customers a market-leading network capability in the region. The company says it also has additional wholesale services on tap to better support the requirements of regional service operators.

BT will also recruit 250 new employees, including skilled network professionals, and open three new centers of excellence in Rio de Janeiro (satellite technologies, products and services), Bogotá (security and data center services) and Mexico City (IP telephony and contact centers).

Jeff Kelly, CEO BT Global Services said, "Latin America is showing great dynamism and ability to grow in the face of a turbulent global economy. Our global customers recognize this. Right now, they are expanding and investing in the region.”