GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The Public Utilities Commission says mobile phone subscriptions in Guyana surpassed one million users in 2025.
In a detailed report on the country’s Telecommunications Sector, the commission said mobile subscribers increased from approximately 560,000 in 2011 to over one million subscribers in 2025, and the increase was linked to network upgrades, competitive offerings and improved nationwide coverage.
Chairman of the PUC, Dr Nanda Gopaul said the increase in mobile subscriptions, and mobile tele-density by more than 120% indicates widespread device ownership and multi-SIM usage.
Additionally, fixed broadband subscriptions continued the upward climb, surpassing 130,000 subscribers.
“These figures underscored Guyana’s accelerating digital transformation and the increasing importance of telecommunications to economic and social life,” Gopaul said.
He said the telecommunications sector, for the most part, experienced remarkable growth in 2025 with the successful implementation of number portability in the country increasing competition.
Implemented in February 10, 2025, number portability allows customers to seamlessly switch between telecommunications service providers while retaining their existing telephone numbers.
Gopaul said the introduction of the service significantly strengthened competition within the sector and empowered customers by giving them greater choice and flexibility.
He said throughout 2025, the Commission closely monitored the services’ performance, its impact and emerging issues.
According to the PUC Chairman, competition further intensified with the entry of Starlink (Guyana) Inc. in April 2025, which was granted a license to provide fixed (via Satellite) broadband internet service.
Consumers now have a broader range of options and greater flexibility in selecting service plans tailored to meet their needs.
In February 2025, the PUC also directed the implementation of the third tranche of termination rate reductions under the Telecommunications (Interconnection and Access) Regulations 2020. The adjustments, Dr. Gopaul explained promoted fair competition, cheaper pricing and prevent anti-competitive pricing distortions.
The rates, he said, are to remain in effect until further notice from the Commission.
Gopaul said the increases in service plans reflected competitive repositioning in response to evolving consumer demand patterns, adding that industry-wide capital expenditure and investments remained elevated as operators expanded fibre networks, upgraded backhaul infrastructure and deepened coverage in developing regions.
Gopaul added that with the rapid emergence of the oil economy, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector maintained its resilience and stability.
He noted that the broader impact is extended beyond its direct economic contribution, as connectivity drove productivity, fostered innovation and supported vital sectors such as education, healthcare, commerce and national security.
