Another GSM operator raises call rates

Velcom, Belarus’ second-largest GSM operator, has decided to raise its call rates by 18 percent because of the sharp devaluation of the Belarusian rubel.

The announcement comes a few days after Mobile TeleSystems (MTS) said that it would increase its rates by 15 and 30 rubels.

"After a thorough analysis of the company's increased costs, we have decided to raise the rates by only 18 percent," Velcom said in a statement. "It means that Velcom will cover part of costs related to the one-time sharp devaluation of the national currency. The increase will help Velcom ensure the provision of services at previous levels and invest into business development."

As of the third quarter of 2008, the operator reportedly had 3.52 million subscribers.