Many unique challenges and opportunities exist in the Iranian telecoms market despite the country’s high penetration rate of 119%, reports Research & Markets.
There are two major mobile operators in Iran - MCI and MTN Irancell - and most citizens have access to 2G and 3G networks. In November 2014, MTN Irancell launched the country’s first 4G/LTE network. Services are primarily available in urban areas, although around a third of mobile users do not own a smartphone. Initial testing of 5G began in Iran in 2017.
Prior to the US government reinstating economic sanctions during 2018, the two major operators had made great strides in upgrading infrastructure - particularly 3G and 4G networks. However, further investment in both mobile and fixed telecoms infrastructure - particularly in rural areas - is required in order to speed up progress and lower costs for consumers.
The operators have recently agreed to provide national roaming which will help to improve services in rural areas. The broadband operator, Iranian-net, is deploying a national fibre network, and a significant development occurred in early 2018 when TCI began infrastructure sharing its fibre network with competitors.
Iran is implementing its 6th Development Plan during 2016-2021.
