The Moldovan subsidiary of TeliaSonera, Moldcell, acquired new licenses for spectrum in the 800 and 1800MHz radio frequency bands, valid for a 15-year term starting in November 6. Moldcell paid €25.5m for the licences.

Moldcell already has spectrum in the 900MHz band, which it will continue to use but the company will abandon its previously acquired frequencies in the 2100MHz and 2600MHz bands. The licences for the new frequencies are technology neutral.

“This investment is a sign of our commitment to continue providing the people in Moldova with high quality services and access to the best mobile coverage, latest technologies and innovative solutions. We have high ambition to further improve our position in the Moldovan market,” said Erik Hallberg, Executive Vice President and Head of Region Eurasia.

Moldcell is the second biggest mobile carrier in Moldova according to Ovum’s WCIS+, with just over one million subscribers at end-March. Orange leads the market with just over two million subscribers.