Millicom (Tigo) Strengthens South American Leadership with USD 380 Million Acquisition of Telefónica Ecuador

Core Insights - Millicom has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Telefónica's telecommunications operations in Ecuador for USD 380 million, aligning with Telefónica's strategy to reshape its Latin American portfolio and providing Millicom with a strategic opportunity to enhance its presence in South America [2][4] - The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Millicom's regional footprint and commercial reach, supporting innovation, digital inclusion, and long-term growth in Ecuador's telecommunications sector [3][8] - Ecuador's stable, dollarized economy, characterized by favorable macroeconomic fundamentals, presents a compelling platform for Millicom to drive digital transformation and long-term value creation [4][9] Company Overview - Millicom is a leading provider of fixed and mobile telecommunications services in Latin America, operating under the TIGO® and Tigo Business® brands, offering a wide range of digital services [8][10] - As of March 31, 2025, Millicom employed approximately 14,000 people and provided services to over 46 million customers, with a fiber-cable footprint covering more than 14 million homes [10] Industry Context - Ecuador's telecommunications sector is experiencing consistent growth, with mobile services increasing by 1.4% and fixed broadband services by 3.6% [9] - The country has a population of approximately 18.5 million, with a median age of 32.4 years and 66% of the population living in urban areas, indicating a growing market for digital services [9] - Recent economic reforms supported by the IMF and World Bank are enhancing transparency and governance, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and telecommunications, contributing to a resilient telecom sector [9]