Lai Van Dao, SCIC's general director said that this is a transfer of all state capital but not a merger.

"We have negotiated with Qantas, with Vietnam Airlines and successfully completed with clear terms. Vietnam Airlines will inherit SCIC's state capital and will nominate candidates to JPA's director board" Dao said.

Earlier, the Vietnamese Ministry of Finance assigned SCIC to represent the state capital in JPA with 69.9 percent stake for building a low-cost airlines in Vietnam, on the basis of cooperation with Qantas Aviation Group (with 27 percent stake).

On January 17, 2012, SCIC's representative will work with parties to carry out this transfer plan and organise the shareholders' meeting to approve the plan.

Le Song Lai, SCIC's deputy general director, said that if the transfer affects competition in the market, it will be positive competition.

"Jetstar's customers are mainly medium-income earners, while tSTC of Vietnam Airlines are medium and high income people. The two units can complement each other very well. The competition framework currently has the specified provision. In my opinion, the transfer is generally good, ensuring the stability of the market," said Lai.

JPA CEO expected the transfer will be completed prior to February 15, 2012.

VietBiz.com - January 19, 2012