Papua New Guineans will soon enjoy a much lower reduction in internet costs, says the Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Timothy Masiu.
Masiu said this anticipated reduction in prices is attributed mainly to the aggressive infrastructure expansion plans of both Vodafone PNG and Digicel PNG which will not only heighten competition, but will further the accessibility for more people and communities, bringing new opportunities and benefits, including financial and health services and progress the overall digital transformation agenda through bridging the digital divide.
Vodafone PNG, a recent entrant into the market, is substantially increasing in its tower sites this year, putting it in direct competition with Digicel PNG and Telikom Ltd.
Digicel PNG, the largest mobile operator in the country, in compliance with requirements set by the Government, continues to expand its infrastructure by building an additional 115 towers by the end of the year.
Masiu said the intensified competition between these three players in the telecommunications sector will likely result in further reduction of retail data and voice prices for PNG citizens, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economy.
“The significant impact these price reductions will have on the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and foreign direct investment (FDI) in PNG.
“The reduced cost of internet services will enable SMEs to expand their digital presence, streamline their operations, and reach a broader customer base,” Masiu said. He said the government remains committed to ensuring the development of the telecommunications sector envisage an information society, empowered by the interconnected world, where telecommunications/ICTs enable and accelerate social, economic and environmentally sustainable growth and development for everyone.