Taipei, Nov. 21, 2008 (CENS)--Taiwan`s WiMAX-equipment industry will likely see revenue double in a year to NT$60 billion (US$1.8 billion at US$1:NT$33) by 2011 in anticipation of robust demands from the island`s six licensed service providers, Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs forecast.

Local WiMAX-equipment suppliers have depended on overseas markets for revenue. But they are expected to shift market emphasis to the island soon when the six local service providers begin offering the services next year, bureau officials said.

This year alone, the island`s equipment suppliers are estimated to turn out revenue totaling NT$17.5 billion (US$530 million). The revenue is projected to shoot up to NT$125.6 billion (US$3.8 billion) in 2013, according to the bureau.

Bureau officials pointed out that Taiwan would become the world`s first WiMAX market covered by nationwide licenses as soon as the six providers kick off operation. Other WiMAX countries, they noted, have issued licenses for regional operation.

The six Taiwanese providers are Tatung InforComm Co., VMAX Telecom Co., Ltd., Vestar Cable TV Network Co., Ltd., First International Telecom Corp., Far EasTone Telecom Co., Ltd. and Global Mobile Corp.

Tatung plans to begin providing the service in May next year, likely becoming Taiwan`s first WiMAX service provider to launch the service.
(by Ken Liu)