China market

Telewise International was founded in the UK in 1998 by Norman Lao and two partners, who have expertise in IT and telecommunications industries. The company prospered, to become the biggest supplier of calling cards for the Chinese community in Europe. In locating Telewise International's Asian headquarters in Hong Kong, Lao obviously has an eye on the China market.

But how does Chins react to Telewise International’s gung ho free market tactics? Says Lao, “Twenty years ago, telecom monopolies were linked to the government and it was difficult for a small company like Telewise International to enter such a sensitive industry. Now, the market operates freely and it will be more open in future, thanks to Chinas commitment to the WTO." China’s rapid progress is reflected in phone tariffs, continues Lao: "Four years ago, a $280 calling card to China provided 165 minutes, whereas today, it buys 3,000 minutes."

They say you only get what you pay for, which is obviously untrue for telephone customers – if you look around, you can always get a better deal. But your first priority should he quality, because a cheap phone service that drive you mad is not a bargain, especially if you are in business and it loses you customers. And while we may criticize the big telcos for their sky-high tariffs, endless silly promotions and unfair mufti-tiered pricing, when it comes to providing a phone service, they can be very good at their jobs, especially in Hong Kong. So the moral is, before you sign any long-term telephone contracts, talk to existing customers to ensure that the service is what you want. Also, when you we overseas telephony services, make sure you do some comparison shopping.

Media: Hong Kong Business