Minister of Communications, Science and Technology Mohamed Maleeh Jamaal has revealed internet prices of 26 countries have been surveyed as part of efforts to reduce internet tariffs in Maldives. The communications minister said time is consumed in reducing the tariffs as the matter is connected to a majority of the people.
Speaking to the media, Minister Maleeh assured the efforts are in progress, adding the results of the discussions with service providers are shared with the President's Office and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Commenting on the developments, Minister Maleeh said most importantly, efforts are progressing on researching and surveying. In this regard, the minister mentioned that internet prices and the services of 26 countries with same geographical concepts as Maldives were researched.
Citing the researches, the minister noted the internet charges in Maldives are remarkably high compared to other countries. However, the minister said the rates in Maldives are increased due to various reasons, noting the challenges faced to telecommunication companies when reducing the prices. In this context, he highlighted the expenses on maintenance as Maldives is geographically dispersed to islands.
Furthermore, Minister Maleeh stated the lack of competition between the telecommunication companies is also a challenge. The communications minister expressed the reduction of internet prices must serve advantageous to both public and the companies.