Hutchison (HTX) has announced its unaudited key performance indicators for the first quarter ended 31 March 2006, reporting the strongest net additions to its mobile customer base in a single quarter since Hutchison Telecom listed in 2004.

The Group recorded its highest ever quarterly net additions with organic growth of 2.6 million mobile customers. The acquisition of BPL Mobile Cellular Limited in January brought a further 1.6 million customers, taking the company's total customer base to 21.1 million at the end of March 2006 and the year on year growth to 62%.

The customer base of its Indian operation increased rapidly to 15.4 million at the end of March 2006, the strongest net additions the operation has ever recorded and almost doubled last quarter's net additions.

Dennis Lui, Chief Executive Officer of Hutchison Telecom, commented: "The growth in the mobile market in India was reflected in our business with record quarterly growth. Through the rapid expansion of our network, commitment to innovative marketing offers and a well recognized brand, our Indian operation has positioned itself as one of the leading mobile operators in the market."