Large increase in internet users proves need for 5G

Large increase in internet users proves need for 5G

The latest figures released by the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) show a healthy year-on-year increase in the number of registered SIM cards and mobile internet users, as the government and telecommunication operators forge ahead with the development of 5G, the latest generation of wireless technology.

In 2019, the number of registered SIM cards in the country rose by 12 percent to 21 million – the equivalent of 120 percent of the population – while the TRC also reported a 20 percent increase of mobile internet users to 16 million. Fixed internet users rose by 46 percent to 224,104 users.

The number of registered Facebook accounts also increased by 29 percent to 8.8 million, while a 35 percent decrease in fixed phone contracts was noted, down to 57,438 users.

Commenting, TRC spokesman Im Vutha said that the growth of internet demand reflects that users are increasingly turning to digital platforms, with fintech and taxi apps a major contributor to the upward trend.

“As more users focus on digital, we are seeing a comparative increase in internet use,” Vutha said.

Currently, Cambodia’s network of seabed-laid optical cables linking directly to the country makes the use of 2G, 3G and 4G networks relatively inexpensive and in turn pushes growth.

According to the TRC report, the 2G cellular network covers 85.7 percent throughout the country, while 3G and 4G cover 60 percent and 52.7 percent respectively.

The surge in internet use comes amidst the government’s plans to become world leaders in rolling out 5G. This is part of a bigger goal for Cambodia to become a digital economy.

Speaking at a recent 5G testing event held by telecommunication company Cellcard, Tram Iv Tek, Minister of Posts and Telecommunications says that development of 5G technology will help contribute to the government’s digital vision and help promote the domestic industry sector.

“5G will be the leading technology to boost the country’s economy, but we need to be ready to take advantage of its benefits to make sure this happens,” he said. “We want Cambodia to be at the forefront of countries emerging from the Asean with 5G technology and as such, welcome all the companies who want to be involved.”

So far, three other telecommunication companies have joined Cellcard in conducting 5G trials: Axiata, Metfone and Yes Seatel.

Additionally, Cambodia has 6 mobile phone service providers, six fixed phone service providers, 7 mobile internet service providers, seven landline phone providers and 33 fixed internet providers, according to TRC.

Source: Khmer Times