Hutchison’s exit follows SmarTone’s similar 2024 departure, both transferring customers to CTM after surrendering their 4G licences
Three Macao to exit local market by December, leaving just two 4G operators
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Hutchison Telecommunications (Macao) Limited, operator of the Three Macao brand, will surrender its 4G mobile licence and end all mobile services in the city from 1 December, the Macao Post and Telecommunications Bureau confirmed.
What happens to existing customers?
Hutchison has arranged with CTM to transfer users onto CTM’s network, subject to each customer’s confirmation. During the transition, Hutchison will keep basic communication services running and continue offering support through its own outlets, CTM service centres, and dedicated hotlines.
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The bureau said it has required Hutchison to submit a full transition plan and will supervise the handover throughout, including protecting affected employees’ rights.
Why is this happening?
The bureau described it as a commercial decision based on Hutchison’s own operational circumstances, without detailing a specific reason.
Has this happened before in Macao?
Yes. SmarTone Mobile Communications, a Sun Hung Kai Properties subsidiary, exited Macao in similar fashion in August 2024, also transferring its customers to CTM after surrendering its own 4G licence. At the time, that departure left three 4G operators in the city: CTM, China Telecom and Three Macao. With Three Macao’s exit now confirmed, Macao’s 4G market will shrink to just two operators, CTM and China Telecom.
