MP News Staff

AT&T (NYSE: T), already the country’s largest wireless company, has begun charging wireless customers in the United States 5 cents a minute when calling landlines in Mexico. Wireless to wireless calls to and from Mexico cost 21 cents a minute.

The new rate is part of the new AT&T World Connect Mexico calling plan. The company is targeting the high-growth U.S. Hispanic market, who spend more on their monthly wireless and long-distance services than the national average. A big part of that are international calls to Mexico.

AT&T is offering the 5 cents a minute rate to customers who sign up for AT&T World Connect Mexico from Oct. 15 to Jan. 15, 2008. Those who sign up at this time will get this rate locked in.

The company developed this plan as an alternative to international calling cards.

Carlton Hill, vice president of voice products and devices for AT&T’s wireless unit, says Mexico is the No. 1 international calling destination for wireless customers and this rate will allow them to call business associates and family in Mexico more often.