GO has raised concerns over the potential impact of Melita’s proposed acquisition of Epic, warning that the deal would reduce the number of mobile network operators in Malta from three to two.

In its first reaction to the proposed transaction, GO said it is following developments “very closely”.

“The proposal raises important questions around competition, consumer choice, pricing, investment and innovation, particularly regarding the longer-term incentives to continue investing in networks and services,” the company said.

“If approved, the transaction would reduce Malta’s mobile network operators from three to two and significantly reshape the telecommunications landscape.”

GO said it expects the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) to carry out a “rigorous, transparent, evidence-based and fully independent assessment” of the transaction and its potential impact across the relevant markets.

The company nevertheless stressed that its own investment plans will remain unchanged irrespective of whether the acquisition is ultimately approved.

“GO remains focused on competing effectively and investing for the long term. Our commitment to Malta’s digital infrastructure remains unchanged,” it said, adding that it will continue investing in its nationwide fibre and mobile networks, while developing its technology and services.

The proposed acquisition, if approved, would represent a significant shake-up of Malta’s telecommunications market, bringing together two of GO’s existing competitors under one operator.

Melita and Epic announced yesterday that they have entered into an agreement that would see Melita purchase all of Epic’s shares.

The two companies said that market demands on telecoms providers are growing, with customers seeking world-class speeds, resilient infrastructure and advanced cybersecurity capabilities.

“This level of sustained investment is only achievable where organisations meet a certain size,” they said.

"A combined business will be better equipped to meet those needs, investing in enhancing network and service quality across both fixed and mobile at a pace and scale that would be more difficult to achieve independently in a small country like Malta.”

A previous attempt by Melita to purchase Epic’s predecessor Vodafone Malta fell through in 2017, with Vodafone stating the two companies were unable to satisfy the MCCAA’s requirements.

Monaco Telecom ended up purchasing Vodafone Malta in 2020 and rebranded it as Epic.