2004: Technology in Malta

The year 2004 saw some important developments in the local technology scene.

Broadband connections grew by 37% since the start of the year and now stand at over 31,000, whilst active mobile subscribers increased to 298,326 by the end of September. Internet telephony (VoIP) also saw an increase.

However local telephone rates were increased as from June 1st, affecting dial-up Internet users.

In July the government launched the national strategy for the Maltese IT.

The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) in September launched an Internet Health Monitoring System in order for the general public to acquire information about the status of the Internet in Malta and overseas, in an easy to use and understandable manner.

The Maltese Internet market also saw another important development with the launch of Vodafone Malta's bandwidth services thanks to its new fiber-optic cable between Malta and Sicily. The provision of bandwidth to ISPs and corporate clients was thus liberalised as from September.

We also had the first news about the launch of new digital services by Melita Cable and the new digital terrestrial television. Digital Television operators Multiplus Ltd said they will be on the Maltese market in the first months of 2005, once permission is granted by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA).

Technology in the news...

• Vodafone Malta invests LM4 million in international gateway between Malta and Sicily - May 15, 2004

• The beginning of June brings rise in tariffs, new regulations - Jun 1, 2004

• New IT strategy aims to tackle digital divide - Jul 22, 2004

• MCA launches an Internet Health Monitoring System - Sep 3, 2004

• DTTV to be introduced in Malta in 2005 by Multiplus Ltd - Dec 23, 2004

• Continued growth of broadband and mobile services - Dec 23, 2004