Azerbaijan is among the countries where internet is 'expensive' …

A recent surge in mobile internet prices has stirred a wave of concern among consumers in Azerbaijan. The country, previously considered relatively "expensive" in terms of mobile internet rates, now faces heightened scrutiny as prices climb higher.

Major mobile operators in Azerbaijan, including Azercell and Bakcell, have announced significant revisions to their internet packages, resulting in across-the-board price hikes. For instance, Azercell's 500 MB monthly internet package saw a 33% increase, rising from 3 to 4 Manats, while Bakcell discontinued its 50 GB package priced at 30 AZN per month, replacing it with a 56 GB package for 39 AZN.

The changes extend beyond mere price adjustments. Azercell introduced new package tiers, such as a 1.5 GB package priced at 6 Manats, and discontinued several existing packages, including the 1 GB and 5 GB options. Bakcell, likewise, rationalized its offerings to align with evolving market dynamics and consumer demands.

Before these recent modifications, Azerbaijan ranked among the pricier countries for mobile internet, with 1 GB of data costing approximately $2.9. This stark comparison highlights the disparity in internet affordability globally, with countries like Israel boasting the cheapest rates at $0.02 per GB, while others, like Zimbabwe, soar to exorbitant heights at $43.75.

In response to Turan's requests for changes, Azercell and Bakcell cited the need for service quality enhancement, tariff optimization, and the accommodation of growing demand for mobile internet. Both companies assured customers of improved service experiences and emphasized their commitment to transparency in pricing adjustments.

However, economist Natig Jafarli, in an interview with Radio Azadlig, raised concerns over the lack of competition and regulatory oversight in Azerbaijan's mobile internet sector. Jafarli pointed to a clear monopoly, suggesting that operators exploit their dominance to raise prices arbitrarily. Unlike other sectors, he noted, there is minimal regulatory control over pricing in the telecommunications industry, enabling operators to wield considerable pricing power.

Jafarli's skepticism extends to the rationale behind price hikes, questioning whether they truly reflect improvements in service quality. He suggests that operators capitalize on consumer reliance on mobile internet services, leveraging their market dominance to drive up prices unchecked.

The situation underscores broader challenges facing Azerbaijan's telecommunications sector, including the need for greater competition, regulatory oversight, and consumer protection measures. As mobile internet becomes increasingly indispensable in modern life, ensuring affordability and accessibility is paramount for fostering digital inclusion and economic development.

While mobile operators cite operational imperatives and market forces to justify price adjustments, the burden ultimately falls on consumers grappling with rising costs in an already challenging economic environment. As discussions around mobile Internet pricing continue, calls for regulatory intervention and increased competition may become more pronounced, which will change the state of Azerbaijan's telecommunications industry in the coming years.