Hong Kong Watchdog Clears China Mobile's HKBN Acquisition with Revised Commitments.

Hong Kong's competition watchdog has accepted commitments from China Mobile Hong Kong regarding its acquisition of HKBN Ltd. The deal, announced in December, was scrutinized due to its potential impact on market competition. China Mobile submitted proposed commitments to address concerns, which were revised to address issues related to mobile backhauls. The revised commitments have been deemed sufficient to address potential competition issues, clearing the way for the merger to proceed.

Hong Kong's competition watchdog, the Communications Authority, has approved the acquisition of broadband provider HKBN Ltd. by China Mobile Hong Kong (CMHK). The approval comes after CMHK submitted revised commitments to address competition concerns, particularly related to mobile backhauls.

The deal, initially announced in December 2024, was scrutinized due to its potential impact on market competition. The Communications Authority conducted an assessment and identified concerns, particularly regarding the fixed local access network. CMHK responded by submitting a set of proposed commitments, which were later revised following industry feedback about mobile backhauls.

The Communications Authority deemed the revised commitments sufficient to address potential competition issues arising from the merger. As a result, the authority has decided not to commence an investigation under the Competition Ordinance, clearing the way for the merger to proceed.

This decision follows the Communications Authority's approval of WarnerMedia's TV license renewal, demonstrating a consistent approach to competition and market regulation in Hong Kong.

References:
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-02/hk-watchdog-accepts-china-mobile-s-hkbn-acquisition-commitments
[2] https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5078471-communications-authority-approves-warnermedia-tv-license-renewal-and-accepts-cmhks-commitments-on-hkbn-acquisition