Bhutan Slashes Internet Charges by 50% to Boost Digital Access

The Royal Government of Bhutan is taking a major step toward digital inclusion by cutting internet charges by 50% for services provided by Bhutan Telecom. The Prime Minister announced this decision during a recent Meet the Press session. It aligns with the country’s broader digital transformation goals outlined in the 13th Five-Year Plan.

The tariff reduction follows a year of careful planning, including consultations with stakeholders and industry experts. In July 2023, the Prime Minister issued an Executive Order instructing the GovTech Agency, Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA), and telecom operators, including Bhutan Telecom, to develop a roadmap for the 50% price cut by August 2024.

A dedicated Cabinet sub-committee reviewed and approved the plan last week. "This initiative has been a top priority for our government, and we have worked closely with experts to ensure it is both sustainable and effective," the Prime Minister said. The Cabinet has now directed relevant agencies to fast-track implementation.

According to Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS), Bhutan Telecom will soon receive formal instructions on how to apply the new rates. Given the company’s involvement in discussions over the past few months, the rollout is expected to be smooth and swift.

While the exact start date is yet to be announced, this move fulfills a key election promise—making internet access more affordable and bringing data prices in line with those in India.

In parallel, Bhutan’s GovTech Agency has also provided an update on the third internet gateway project, which is now 90% complete. The final phase has faced delays due to cross-border right-of-way issues, but diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve them quickly.

Lowering internet costs is expected to drive economic growth, expand educational opportunities, and enhance government e-services. By making the internet more affordable, Bhutan is taking a major step toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all citizens can benefit from technological advancements.


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