Algeria has seen a significant reduction in fiber optic internet prices and a widespread expansion of its network between 2019 and 2026. Over this period, the cost of fiber optic internet decreased by 91 percent. This dramatic reduction has made high-speed internet more accessible to a broader segment of the population. The fiber optic connection was also substantially generalized across the nation, extending its reach from 50,000 homes to 3.5 million homes, marking a considerable infrastructure development. This expansion signifies a strong effort to enhance digital connectivity throughout Algeria.
Unprecedented Price and Speed Gains
The price of fiber optic internet for a 100 Mbps connection experienced a remarkable decrease, plummeting from 24,500 DZD to just 2,200 DZD between 2019 and 2026. This 91 percent reduction represents a major stride towards digital affordability. During this same period, the maximum available speed for fiber optic internet also saw a significant increase, with the flow ceiling multiplying tenfold for the same price. This development means subscribers can now access significantly higher speeds without an increase in cost, greatly improving the value proposition for consumers. Concurrently, improvements were also made to ADSL internet services, ensuring a full upgrade across different internet technologies. The speed for ADSL connections was upgraded, moving from previous offerings of 5 and 10 Mbps to a standardized 20 Mbps, providing a baseline improvement for many users. These changes reflect a broader trend in Algeria's internet infrastructure, aiming to enhance both affordability and performance for users across different technologies, fostering greater digital inclusion.
Expanding Fiber Infrastructure
On April 12, 2026, Minister of Post, Sayed Ali Zerrougui, announced from Saida a significant upgrade for internet users. The minister stated that internet speed would be increased for all Algerie Telecom subscribers at no additional cost, a move designed to benefit a vast number of citizens. This initiative aims to improve public services provided to customers and support the country's digital transformation efforts, aligning with national development goals. The upgrades are part of a continuous effort to modernize Algeria's telecommunications sector.
Mr. Zerrougui emphasized the importance of this step, stating, "تحسين الخدمة العمومية المقدّمة لزبائن اتصالات الجزائر. ومواكبة التحوّل الرقمي الذي تشهده البلاد" (improving the public service provided to Algerie Telecom customers, and keeping pace with the digital transformation the country is experiencing). The move follows a period of substantial investment in Algeria's digital infrastructure, contributing to expanded connectivity and access for citizens and businesses alike. These strategic investments are key for positioning Algeria as a digitally advanced nation.
Affordable Mobile Internet
Mobile internet costs in Algeria do not exceed 0.49 percent of the country's per capita Gross National Income. This figure positions Algeria favorably in terms of digital affordability on an international scale. The nation's mobile internet cost is significantly lower than the international threshold, which is estimated at 2 percent of per capita Gross National Income, making it one of the most affordable globally. This affordability metric indicates a broader accessibility for citizens to essential communication services, facilitating greater participation in the digital economy. The low cost contributes to wider internet penetration and supports the country's digital inclusion objectives, ensuring that more people can connect and benefit from online resources.
Minister's Vision for Digital Future
Algeria's digital transformation initiatives include further enhancements to internet services, demonstrating a forward-looking approach to national connectivity. The speed for Fiber To The Home (FTTH) service is set to increase from 60 Mbps to 100 Mbps, providing a substantial boost for residential users. This upgrade aims to provide users with significantly faster connectivity, which is essential for modern data consumption and digital activities.
Additionally, the flow ceiling for subscribers paying 1600 DZD has seen a substantial improvement over several years, reflecting a commitment to upgrading even entry-level packages. This specific subscription tier experienced a remarkable speed increase from 2 Mbps in 2019 to 20 Mbps by 2026, offering significantly more bandwidth for the same price point. These changes reflect an ongoing strategy to boost internet performance and accessibility across the country, ensuring that all segments of the population can benefit from improved digital services.
