Дата публикации
Kazakhstan continues to face challenges in mobile network stability amid growing demand. In response, the Ministry of Digital Development proposed a new Telecom Quality and Consumer Rights Protection Fund.
The fund would be financed by a 3% levy on telecom operators’ revenues, along with donations and other legal sources. Funds will be used to eliminate coverage gaps, improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and support digital literacy.
Public consultation ended on June 17, but the law has not yet been adopted. With operators already raising mobile tariffs by an average of 25%, concerns remain about further price increases.
Kazinform raised the issue, asking whether the new levy would drive up costs. The ministry responded that a 1.3992% levy has existed since 2010 to subsidize rural internet access. The proposed 3% rate is still under discussion, and the ministry may retain the current level.
No final decision has been made, but the risk of higher tariffs remains. Authorities promise to consider consumer interests in future deliberations.
The ministry also proposed increasing fines for poor internet quality. Minister Zhaslan Madiev cited urban expansion and new developments as causes of coverage gaps. Operators often fail to respond quickly.
Citizens can file complaints via the e-otinish system. If violations are confirmed, fines may increase 3–5 times, encouraging faster operator response.
Another proposal would simplify telecom equipment installation on residential buildings. Towers could be mounted without full tenant consent, provided sanitary approval is obtained.
The amendments also waive construction permits for towers under 30 meters and introduce rent-free access. This should accelerate coverage expansion and reduce operator costs.
The fund would be financed by a 3% levy on telecom operators’ revenues, along with donations and other legal sources. Funds will be used to eliminate coverage gaps, improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and support digital literacy.
Public consultation ended on June 17, but the law has not yet been adopted. With operators already raising mobile tariffs by an average of 25%, concerns remain about further price increases.
Kazinform raised the issue, asking whether the new levy would drive up costs. The ministry responded that a 1.3992% levy has existed since 2010 to subsidize rural internet access. The proposed 3% rate is still under discussion, and the ministry may retain the current level.
No final decision has been made, but the risk of higher tariffs remains. Authorities promise to consider consumer interests in future deliberations.
The ministry also proposed increasing fines for poor internet quality. Minister Zhaslan Madiev cited urban expansion and new developments as causes of coverage gaps. Operators often fail to respond quickly.
Citizens can file complaints via the e-otinish system. If violations are confirmed, fines may increase 3–5 times, encouraging faster operator response.
Another proposal would simplify telecom equipment installation on residential buildings. Towers could be mounted without full tenant consent, provided sanitary approval is obtained.
The amendments also waive construction permits for towers under 30 meters and introduce rent-free access. This should accelerate coverage expansion and reduce operator costs.
