Guyana’s telecommunications sector has reached a major milestone, with mobile phone subscriptions surpassing one million users in 2025, according to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
In a detailed report on the country’s telecommunications sector, the commission said mobile subscribers grew significantly from about 560,000 in 2011 to over one million in 2025. The increase was attributed to network upgrades, competitive service offerings and improved nationwide coverage.
PUC Chairman Dr. Nanda Gopaul said the rise in mobile subscriptions, along with mobile tele-density increasing by more than 120 per cent, reflects widespread device ownership and the use of multiple SIM cards by consumers.
The report also showed continued growth in fixed broadband services, which surpassed 130,000 subscribers during the period.
“These figures underscored Guyana’s accelerating digital transformation and the increasing importance of telecommunications to economic and social life,” Gopaul said.
He noted that the telecommunications sector experienced “remarkable growth” in 2025, supported by the successful rollout of number portability on February 10, 2025. The system allows customers to switch between service providers while retaining their existing phone numbers.
According to Gopaul, the introduction of number portability strengthened competition in the sector and gave consumers greater choice and flexibility. He added that the PUC closely monitored the service throughout the year, including its performance and emerging issues.
Competition in the sector further intensified in April 2025 with the entry of Starlink (Guyana) Inc., which received a licence to provide fixed satellite broadband services, expanding internet options for consumers.
In February 2025, the PUC also ordered the implementation of the third tranche of termination rate reductions under the Telecommunications (Interconnection and Access) Regulations 2020. Dr. Gopaul said the adjustments were designed to promote fair competition, reduce prices and prevent anti-competitive pricing practices. The rates will remain in effect until further notice from the commission.
Gopaul added that changes in service plans reflected competitive repositioning in response to evolving consumer demand, while noting that capital expenditure and investment levels across the sector remained high. Operators continued expanding fibre networks, upgrading backhaul infrastructure and extending coverage into developing regions.
He further stated that despite the rapid expansion of Guyana’s oil economy, the information and communications technology (ICT) sector has remained stable and resilient.
According to him, the sector’s impact extends beyond its direct economic contribution, with connectivity supporting productivity, innovation and key sectors such as education, healthcare, commerce and national security.
