The Chinese government has decided to accelerate the development of its high-speed broadband network, with the aim of increasing speed while reducing price.
As reported in a relevant BBC report, less than 50% of the population has access to the Internet, and of those, many have slow speeds.
Premier Li Keqiang also asked telecommunications companies to reduce prices, including those for data roaming, especially for tourists - but added that it was up to the individual to decide.
It has not been announced what funds will be invested, however the Chinese Prime Minister announced a round of investments aimed at improving infrastructure.
As he noted, according to a related announcement, China has more mobile phone users than any other country, but Internet service speeds are below 80th place, due to the underdeveloped IT infrastructure.
He also added that accelerating infrastructure construction would boost investment and support for China, while helping "mass innovation.".
According to Li, telecommunications companies should take immediate action to reduce prices and increase broadband speeds in cities by about 40%.
Although, as mentioned above, he did not specify how much investment would be needed, officials have previously indicated an amount of around 322 billion to improve China's broadband infrastructure by 2020.
According to the relevant announcement by the Chinese government, the country will continue to aim to open up the telecommunications market and encourage increased competition, including through the expansion of a pilot scheme for broadband services within the year.
Source: naftemporiki.gr
