People of Fiji are now expected to be more connected to each other and to the world than ever before.
This will be made possible after the launch of TFL’s wireless broadband service.
The investment by TFL is expected to make Wi-Fi services more accessible and more affordable for Fijians.
It’s a great step forward for Fiji’s information and communications technology industry, an industry the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said Government is committed to developing.
Bainimarama said Fiji is experiencing more of the advantages of technological advancement every day.
“We’ve already deregulated the telecommunications market and increased competition by leveling the playing field for operators. We also reduced import duty on laptops, computers, smart phones and modems, bringing the price on all of these items down. Of course in the 2016 Budget, the duty for wireless modems has been further reduced from 5 percent to zero percent. And now with the across-the-board reduction of VAT from 15 percent to 9 percent, these items and everything else will become even more affordable for ordinary Fijians and thereby creating greater accessibility. When we make technology more accessible, we widen the benefits and opportunities generated by the information revolution. ”
The Prime Minister said the only factor left is pricing and bandwidth access.
“The international digital landscape is constantly evolving, and Fiji needs to keep pace. If our pricing models and internet connection speeds remain uncompetitive, Fiji will fall behind – and Fijians will miss out on future opportunities. We risk losing out on new international investment if we can’t offer affordable services, have better bandwidth and make a determined and practical approach to create ourselves as a technological hub. While Government will do its part, FINTEL and TFL must get serious. The pricing and inflexible attitude to get more customers for themselves and investors into Fiji needs to be addressed immediately. ” said Bainimarama
I also understand that the current plans to complete the laying of fibre optic cable around Viti Levu have slowed down because of the inability of FEA and TFL to expeditiously work together. We cannot afford to have our critical infrastructure companies working in silos. This matter must be resolved within a week. ”
Bainimarama said Government will continue to help innovators in the ICT industry spread the benefits throughout the country.
“My Government will also continue to encourage partnerships between domestic companies and offshore roaming partners to allow for better and affordable connectivity. Roaming charges by our mobile phones are still too high. It is no longer a luxury but a necessary tool for communications. ”
The launch was held at the Grand Pacific Hotel last night.