Hutch plans more capex

Hong Kong-based Hutchison Telecom is likely to invest about 60% of its total capital expenditure in india in 2005.

"With a focus on driving growth in the customer base, total capital expenditure in 2005 is expected to be the same in 2004. About 60% of the total capital expenditure is expected to go to continued investment in india to build new networks and increase capacity," an Hutchison Telecom International release said.

"Growth in India business continued to be strong, reflecting growth of the overall market and the group's position within the market. In Q4 of 2004, the customer base increased 12.7% despite strong competition, and average revenue per user remained constant at Rs 589," it said.

The company said its customer base in India increased by 74.7% to 7.2 million in 2004, and turnover increased by 57.7% to HK$7093 million. Earnings before interest, tax and depreciation rose 42.7% to HK$2201 million.