Timor-Leste could save EUR 40 mln with better internet access through international fibre link ⋆

Timor-Leste could save EUR 40 mln with better internet access through international fibre link

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a small country located in Southeast Asia. The country has made significant progress in recent years in terms of developing its internet infrastructure and increasing access to internet services for its citizens. Timor-Leste may save up to EUR 40 million with an international fibre optic connection that speeds up internet access, which is among the most expensive in the world, according to the “Speed Matters” study.

Currently, there are several internet service providers operating in Timor-Leste, including Timor Telecom, Telkomcel, and Telemor. These providers offer a range of internet services, including broadband, 3G, and 4G mobile internet.

The quality and speed of internet services in Timor-Leste can vary depending on location and the specific provider. In general, internet speeds in the country are still relatively slow compared to many other countries, with average speeds ranging from 2 to 10 Mbps.

Despite these challenges, the government of Timor-Leste has made significant efforts to improve internet access in the country. For example, the government has launched initiatives to provide free public Wi-Fi in certain areas and has worked to increase connectivity in rural and remote areas.

The study estimates that improving internet access could lead to a USD 23 million annual increase in salaries, with up to 16,000 additional jobs. Operators in Timor-Leste spend $ 12 million a year on acquiring access to the international network through satellite, with this figure being then multiplied by costs for customers with slow and unstable speeds.

“The price here is on average $ 200 per megabit per second per month, and Timor buys 8 gigabits, which is $ 12 million,” said Michael Ackland, national director of Governance and Strategic Projects at Vocus Group – the fourth largest Australian telecommunications company. timor-leste internet

Prepared by the Australian University Monash and the Market Development Facility (MDF), the study analyses the advantages of Timor-Leste establishing an international fibre-optic connection.