Panama - National Internet Network

Telecom Investment Research Note

Synopsis

Panama’s Internet penetration is expected to grow substantially in 2010/2011 thanks to a government project dubbed National Internet Network (RNI) or Internet for All. In 2010, Panama became one of the first countries in the world to offer free wireless broadband access nationwide, reaching 80% of the population.

Besides expanding communication at both the national and international level, the RNI should help to push up the country’s GDP growth. Panama, like other countries, is aware of the importance Internet access has on long-term economic success, and in this, the government has acted promptly to bridge the digital divide and improve Panama’s competitiveness.

With one of the region’s highest GDP growth forecast for 2010/2011, the outlook is promising for Panama’s telecom market. In 2010, telecom revenues are expected to exceed US$1 billion, with mobile services and broadband being the fastest growing sectors.