Following the rapid development of casinos in Macau in recent years, there is a continuously increased demand for telecommunication from both commercial and individual users.

According to government statistics, there were around 324,600 mobile subscribers and around 175,400 fix line subscribers in August of 2003. There are around 623,000 mobile subscribers and around 176,000 fix line subscribers in August of 2006. There is a 92% increase of mobile phone users within three years.

"It's good for citizens and telecommunication companies. Due to the rapid growth of the economy in Macau, we can also increase the competitiveness among the telecom companies," said Alan Choi, Call Center manager in CTM. "More subscribers can increase competitiveness, the competitors will mutually gain strength and it's also good for subscribers. They can choose the best one!"

The "Adapting Period" is for citizens to get familiar with the new numbers. Citizens should inform their overseas friends, relatives and business partners and renew their phonebooks in handsets, fax machines, PDAs and telephones.

For enquiries, please contact the Telecommunications and Information Technology Development Office of Government at 3969164.