Canada is known for its vast wilderness and friendly people, but when it comes to mobile data prices, it stands out in a different way - as one of the most expensive countries in the world. Sweden-based mobile analytics firm Tefficient recently released a report that highlights just how much Canadians pay for their wireless data.
A Glimpse into Mobile Data Usage Around the World
Tefficient's latest report reveals that mobile data usage accelerated globally in 2020, with some countries experiencing slower growth rates. The company notes that using mobile data has never been cheaper, but the erosion of revenue per gigabyte varies significantly between markets.
A Chart That Reveals Canada's Mobile Data Pricing Outlier Status
One chart shared by Tefficient shows just how much of an outlier Canada is when it comes to wireless data pricing. The chart displays the total mobile service revenue per gigabyte (Euro) from 44 countries around the world, with Canada standing out as a significant exception.
Canada's Mobile Data Pricing: A Global Comparison
According to the report, Canada has the highest total revenue per gigabyte in the world, at an astonishing 14 Euros or approximately $20 CAD. This is significantly higher than most other countries, which fall within the range of 0 to 7 Euros per gigabyte.
A Comparison with Other Countries
Another chart shared by Tefficient shows that Canada has the highest average revenue per user (ARPU), yet the lowest usage. This data is from 2019, as 2020 data has not been made available yet from regulators. Switzerland and the USA also join Canada in having much higher ARPUs than other countries.
The Reaction of Canadians Online
The report sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with many Canadians expressing surprise and frustration at the high cost of mobile data in their country. Some even claimed that the wireless industry is run by an oligopoly, while others called for government intervention to control cellphone pricing.
A Response from the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association
The CWTA, the telecom industry's lobby group, responded to Tefficient's report, disputing some of its findings and pointing out that the chart used shows that other countries like the USA and Switzerland also have higher ARPUs. The CWTA also emphasized that Canada has experienced declining prices in recent years, along with increasing usage.
The Reality Check
While the CWTA's response may seem to downplay the significance of Tefficient's findings, it's clear that Canada's mobile data pricing is a pressing issue that requires attention. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on mobile technology, it's essential for governments and industry players to work together to create more affordable and competitive wireless markets.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, Canada's mobile data prices are a notable outlier in the global market. While some may argue that other countries have similar issues, it's clear that Canada stands out as one of the most expensive countries when it comes to wireless data pricing. As the need for mobile technology continues to grow, it's crucial for Canadians to demand more affordable and competitive options from their wireless providers.