Regulatory body cut down tariffs for international IP-traffic for “ArmenTel” and FiberNet

Yerevan /Mediamax/. Public Services Regulatory Committee (PSRC) of Armenia established tariffs for international IP-traffic for “ArmenTel” (Beeline trademark) and FiberNet Communications Companies.

As the Head of PSRC Tariff Department Armen Arshakyan stated at the session, in conditions of the current AMD/USD exchange rate, the maximum tariff for 1Mb/sec international IP-traffic is established at the volume of 174.000 AMD, which is twice lower, as compared to the tariff, which was in effect in the first half of 2009.

The decision will come into effect on January 1, 2010.

Member of the Committee Samvel Arabajyan stated while talking to journalists that the decision will allow operators significantly reducing prices for the final user. According to him, at the moment “ArmenTel” and FiberNet Communications have 55% of profitability from sale of wholesale internet, however after reduction of tariffs the level of profitability will make 12%. According to Arabajyan, “the regulatory body cannot allow private companies, which occupy dominating positions, gaining super profits at the expense of the consumers”.

Head of “ArmenTel” Company’s Legal department David Sandukhchyan expressed discontent in connection with the Committee’s decision, noting that PSRC is neglecting the interests of investors. “Given such a low level of profitability, the sphere may lose its attractiveness of investors”, he noted.