ICT
From The Report: Colombia 2017
View in Online Reader

The telecoms sector is adapting to the move from voice to data. Although this is set to affect operators’ financial results in the near term, rapid expansion of smartphones and 4G accessibility is set to enlarge the potential for new offers. Furthermore, the merger of different entities into a single regulatory body would simplify the rules for operators, ease procedures and remove the need to interact with a number of different watchdogs. In terms of IT, usage across Colombia, along with the deployment of the necessary infrastructure over several years, have created an environment in which the permeation of IT across business and society is well established, and is set to continue. As such, domestic conditions bode well for the continued expansion of the IT industry in the country over the medium term. This chapter includes an interview with David Luna, Minister of Information and Communication Technologies.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Up to the challenge: Growth slows as operators adapt to the rising demand for data
OBG
plus

These have not been easy times for Colombia’s telecoms industry. Accustomed to growth averaging an annual rate of 7% over the past 15 years, the sector registered a 2% decrease in 2015. Competition and a more robust regulatory framework have helped reduce prices for voice and data, as well as improve service quality. Though some aspects of regulation need revision, the sector continues to show promise, especially as patterns of data consumption become more established. Regulatory moves…

Interview

City slickers: David Luna, Minister of Information and Communication Technologies, on ICT progress and the future of smart cities
OBG
plus

Interview:David Luna Can the target of the digital economy accounting for 5% of Colombia’s GDP be met by 2018? DAVID LUNA: We are experiencing a transformation known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which makes it possible for many goods and services to be produced by new business models supported by technology. Colombia is not foreign to this trend. With the Digital Live Plan, we have supported the availability of ICT to citizens and businesses, and we have already taken an important…

Overview

Digital shift: Sector expansion continues amid growing IT usage
OBG
plus

The rapid development experienced by the Colombian economy has been matched by the progressive adoption of IT by firms and end users. Although the reduction in oil export earnings is causing budgetary constraints, authorities continue to invest in improving access to IT and telecoms services for Colombians, as well as supporting digitalisation efforts across economic sectors. The ongoing implementation of the Vive Digital plan has revamped the IT ecosystem. Training programmes for Colombians…

Analysis

At your convenience: Improved internet access has led to a surge in e-commerce transaction volumes
OBG
plus

With rising numbers of internet users and improved access to telecoms services across the country, Colombian consumers are turning to e-commerce as an easy option for shopping. So far, online transactions have focused on a select group of products. However, expansion of e-commerce activities promises to expand online shopping into a growing number of products and services as a rising number of retail outlets and online platforms strengthen their presence within Colombia’s online market. The…