Telenor Celebrates 25 Years of Digital Progress in Thailand

Telenor Group, one of our premium members, a leading telecommunications provider in the Nordics and Asia, celebrates 25 years as a key partner in Thailand’s digital transformation, helping shape a connected future for millions. For a quarter of a century, Telenor has played a central role in shaping a more connected future for millions, building the foundations of Thailand’s digital economy, and driving innovation across the telecommunications sector. To commemorate this milestone, Telenor Group Chairman Jens Petter Olsen, President & CEO Benedicte Schilbred Fasmer, and Head of Telenor Asia Jon Omund Revhaug hosted a celebratory dinner in Bangkok with over 100 guests on Wednesday, 1 October 2025.

The Thai-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce was pleased to join the celebration. A highlight of the evening was the presence of H.E. Mrs. Astrid Emilie Helle, Norwegian Ambassador to Thailand and Cambodia, whose attendance, alongside several members of the Chamber’s Board, reflected the deep and enduring ties between Norway and Thailand.

Representing the Norwegian-Thai business community were: Ms. Kristine Anvik Leach (Jotun), Mr. Eirik Mork Knudsen (Aibel), Mr. Pongsin Thepruangchai (Yara), Ms. Vibeke Lyssand Leirvåg (Felicia Design), Mr. Jostein Aksnes (Seven Peaks Software), and Dr. Supareak Charlie Chomchan (Pacific Rim Rich Group).

This milestone celebration also coincides with the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Norway and Thailand in 2025, adding even greater significance to the occasion. As a Chamber, we are proud to support and stand alongside our members as Telenor Group continues to drive innovation and shape Thailand’s digital future.

Since entering the Thai market in 2000, Telenor has:

• Expanded Mobile Accessibility: Brought affordable mobile services to millions of Thai consumers, connecting both urban centres and rural communities.
• Pioneered Technology Advancement: Introduced cutting-edge mobile technologies from 2G to 4G, laying the foundation for Thailand’s digital economy.
• Driven Digital Inclusion: Implemented nationwide programmes to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access.
• Fostered Innovation: Invested in digital infrastructure, nationwide data coverage, and innovation to enable a tech-savvy population.

Benedicte Schilbred Fasmer, President & CEO of Telenor Group, said:  “For 25 years, Telenor has been proud to stand alongside Thailand in its digital journey, connecting millions, empowering communities, and helping build a more inclusive digital society.”

Jon Omund Revhaug, Head of Telenor Asia, added: “Our story in Thailand is one of innovation, partnership, and shared ambition. Thanks to the trust of our partners and customers, Telenor has built a strong foundation for digital growth. Today, Thailand is an important market for Telenor, and True Corporation is a significant asset in our global portfolio. With True Corporation, we are ready to meet the fast-evolving needs of Thai people and drive the next chapter of digital transformation together.”

From providing access to basic telecommunications to supporting True Corporation in responsibly unlocking growth in 5G, AI, IoT, and cloud technologies, Telenor has played a central role in building one of Asia’s most digitally engaged societies. Today, 9 in 10 Thai mobile internet users already integrate AI into their daily lives, according to Telenor Asia’s Digital Lives Decoded 2025 study.

 Highlights from Telenor’s 25-Year Partnership in Thailand

• 2024: True Corporation wins Stock Exchange of Thailand’s “Deal of the Year” award for the successful merger.
• 2023: Merger of True and dtac is successfully completed, with Telenor and CP Group as equal owners; True Corporation serves ~60 million customers.
• 2021: Telenor Group and CP Group announce intention to create a leading telecom-tech company by merging True and dtac.
• 2020: dtac launches 5G services.
• 2018: dtac launches new AI laboratory with Thammasat University and SIIT.
• 2017: dtac receives the Thailand Sustainability Investment Award.
• 2014–2015: dtac launches 4G in Bangkok, expanding nationwide to 40 major cities.
• 2013: Launch of dtac Accelerate Incubator program, running until 2021 and enabling Thai startups to access international markets.
• 2011–2012: dtac rolls out 3G services across multiple spectrum bands.
• 2009: dtac moves into Chamchuri Square headquarters, recognized globally for its innovative design.
• 2007: dtac rebrands under Telenor’s global identity.
• 2006: Telenor establishes Asia regional headquarters in Bangkok; Sigve Brekke becomes CEO of dtac.
• 2003: Launch of “Happy,” a prepaid brand making mobile connectivity affordable for all.
• 2002: dtac introduces Thai-Norwegian co-CEOs, blending international expertise with local knowledge.
• 2000: Telenor acquires a stake in Thai mobile operator Total Access Communications (TAC).

As the Chamber representing the Norwegian-Thai business community, we are proud to support and stand alongside our members as Telenor continues to drive innovation and shape Thailand’s digital future.  We extend our warmest congratulations to Telenor on this remarkable achievement and look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared success.