Mobile Number Portability Delays Criticized, Implementation Promised in Early 2025
Information and Technology Minister Melford Nicholas has expressed frustration over delays in implementing mobile number portability (MNP) in Antigua and Barbuda, a long-awaited feature that would allow consumers to retain their phone numbers when switching service providers.
Speaking during his 2025 budget debate contribution, Nicholas pointed to resistance from telecommunications operators, particularly Flow, as a major hurdle.
“Flow has been rather obstinate in my humble opinion in delaying the full implementation of this particular project,” Nicholas stated, noting that both Flow and Digicel have successfully introduced MNP in other regional markets like Trinidad, Barbados, and Jamaica.
Despite these setbacks, Nicholas assured the public that significant progress has been made, with contractual agreements for the third-party company responsible for number porting expected to be finalized soon.
He expressed confidence that the project would be launched in the first few weeks of 2025.
“The public has been anxiously awaiting this service, and it is my expectation—and I will drive for it—that we move towards implementation early in the new year,” Nicholas declared.
Mobile number portability is seen as a key step in enhancing consumer choice and fostering competition in the telecommunications sector. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring its timely rollout.
Further updates on the project are expected in the coming weeks as the government works closely with telecom operators to meet the promised timeline.
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