For several weeks, the Equatoguinean government has been negotiating with players in the telecom sector for the reduction of tariffs for the benefit of consumers.
From May 1, all telecommunications operators in Equatorial Guinea will have to reduce their rates by 50%. This decision is the result of a preliminary agreement signed between the government, the Telecommunications Regulatory Body of Equatorial Guinea (ORTEL), the Telecommunications Infrastructure Manager in Equatorial Guinea (GITGE) and the mobile telephone companies. The agreement was adopted on Wednesday 20 April.
According to Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, vice-president of Equatorial Guinea, the decision to reduce telecommunications tariffs by 50% is provisional and has been accepted by telecommunications companies. The final percentages will be defined at the end of a study in progress, which could lead to a greater reduction. He warned that telecom companies that fail to comply with the new rules could have their operating licenses revoked.
This government decision is part of its concern for the well-being of the Equatoguinean people, in accordance with Article 29 of the Constitution. The decision should make it possible to reduce the costs of communications for the populations, but it also constitutes risks of loss of income for the operators. The authorities hope that the reduction in tariffs will not affect the quality of services provided by operators.