Signs MOU with telcos and enterprises at launch of International Data Channel

Singapore, 11 September, 2019 – Singtel signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with three leading telcos in China – China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom, and seven Chongqing-based enterprises at the Singapore-China (Chongqing) Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum today.

Under the MOU, Singtel will work with the China telcos to link seven industrial parks in Chongqing with secure, high-speed connectivity to Singapore, as part of the China (Chongqing) - Singapore International Data Channel (IDC) which was launched today by dignitaries led by Mr Chan Chun Sing, Minister for Trade and Industry, Singapore and Mr Chen Min’er, Chongqing Party Secretary.

As part of the MOU, seven enterprises from the manufacturing, research, data-hosting and blockchain sectors in Chongqing agreed to use Singtel’s network to fulfil their connectivity needs when they make their foray or expand into the Singapore market. Singtel will also provide its cloud, Internet-of-Things (IoT) and smart city solutions to propel enterprises forward in their digitalisation efforts.

“The International Data Channel will create new opportunities for both Singapore and Chinese enterprises, and facilitate the flow of business between the Asia-Pacific and western China. By building a robust communications infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for enterprises to extend their reach within the region,” said Mr Lim Seng Kong, Managing Director, Global Enterprise Business, Group Enterprise at Singtel. “With enhanced data connectivity, businesses are better-placed to deploy artificial intelligence, IoT, data analytics and other emerging technologies to power growth and drive their transformation.”

“The MOU reinforces our on-going cooperation with Singtel in the area of IoT, and we are excited to partner with them again. With superior connectivity, the data channel will fuel enterprises’ growth ambitions and pave the way for new partnerships and investments in China and Singapore,” said Mr Yin Xian Zhi, Chongqing Chairman and General Manager at China Mobile.

“In today’s fast-moving digital economy, businesses need agility and speed in order to seize opportunities. Together with Singtel, our extensive data network linking Chongqing and Singapore is a key enabler for enterprises to set up operations quickly and move fast in capturing new markets,” said Mr Wu Zai Xue, Chongqing General Manager at China Unicom.

“Our collaboration with Singtel will help Chinese enterprises gain a foothold in the Asia Pacific. With Singtel’s extensive communications infrastructure, technological capabilities and regional presence, companies can quickly expand into Singapore and scale up across the region,” said Mr Gong Bo, Chongqing General Manager at China Telecom.

Chongqing is a hub for emerging technologies, representing vast opportunities for cross-country collaboration between companies. High-tech zones including the industrial parks that Singtel will be providing connectivity services to, such as the Liangjiang New Area and Xiyong Micro-Electronics Industrial Park, are being developed to spur growth in high-end equipment manufacturing, new materials manufacturing, and the new energy industries.

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Annexe

Chongqing-based enterprises who are part of the MOU

1.    Chongqing Xiaotao Consumer Insight Research and Big Data Com. Ltd., a research company offering an AI-based online questionnaire, survey and statistics platform;

2.    Deaking, a blockchain company;

3.    Haifu, a manufacturer of non-invasive ultrasound therapeutic systems for both malignant and benign tumours;

4.    Listen (Chongqing) Data Technology Co. Ltd., a market study, consulting, and survey firm;

5.    Jinvovo Technology, a block chain company;

6.    Mobvista, a mobile adtech company;

7.    GDS, data centre operator in China.

Singtel’s digital focus areas

i. Cloud

Enterprises can seize digitalisation opportunities by adopting cloud solutions using secure public and private cloud platforms and applications. Singtel provides consultancy, cloud migration, security and governance services to help enterprises move seamlessly to the cloud.

ii. IoT

Enterprises in Chongqing and Singapore, particularly manufacturers, can seamlessly deploy IoT devices such as those installed in cars, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment across both countries, without having to manually configure the devices or switch networks. This is enabled by a Master Services Agreement signed in February 2019 between Singtel and China Mobile International Limited.

iii. Smart city solutions

Singtel, through its subsidiary NCS, offers an advanced data fusion platform that enables enterprises to transform their operations through greater use of their data.