Iraq plans 20% internet speed increase without changing prices

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Communications Minister Mustafa al-Saddawi has proposed raising fixed broadband internet speeds by 20% while keeping subscription prices unchanged, according to a ministry statement. The proposal was made at a meeting in Baghdad with senior representatives of private companies operating fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) projects across the country. The talks focused on improving the quality of fiber internet services in Iraqi cities and addressing technical challenges facing operators. Representatives from 15 firms attended, including Earthlink, Toros, al-Khalij al-Faitha, Tariq al-Surayya, Jazeera al-Arabiyya, Hilal al-Rafidain, Nukhbat al-Iraq, al-Hayat, al-Rahma, Balad al-Shamukh, Nur al-Badiya, al-Sabah Technology, al-Iraq al-Wataniyya, al-Khabir al-Lamutanihiyya and Iraq Cell (IQ). According to the ministry, all FTTH providers at the meeting responded positively to the minister's proposal to deliver higher internet speeds at the same price point for subscribers. The ministry did not provide a timeline for implementation. No further details on the rollout schedule or technical specifications were immediately available.