Broadband Plans in Latin America: Common Challenges, Diverse Solutions: Comparison of Mexico and Costa Rica

Abstract

In recent years, recognizing the societal benefits of broadband, a great many countries have developed national broadband plans. These plans often seek to achieve two different goals, which are not always clearly distinguished:

* Provision of basic broadband to all, or as many as possible, at an affordable price; and

* Provision of ultra-fast broadband to those who want it and can afford it.

Latin American countries struggle against a number of common challenges, including:

* Varied population, with a wide variation in disposable income and education;

* Challenging topography and geography;

* A long history of monopoly or oligopoly control of the sector; and

* Institutional structures that struggle to introduce needed changes.

Different countries in the region have taken somewhat diverse approaches in an effort to overcome these barriers in order to bring the benefits of broadband to their respective populations. These approaches typically reflect national circumstances and experience.