Palau
3.4 Palau Telecommunications

Telecommunications Overview

Palau telecommunications is a small, formerly  unregulated sector undertaking significant growth with the improvement and cost reduction in technology.

The Palau National Communications Company (PNCC) is a semi-government agency, operating the main mobile network. Due to tax concessions it operates at a competitive advantage to the two other players in the market, Palau Telecoms and the Palau WiFi Corporation.

Mobile services have taken over the share of the market from landlines, with both 2-3G cell services throughout Babeldoab, Peleliu, Angaur, and Kayangel Islands. The 3 main telecoms companies offer mobile coverage across the main islands. (See Annex 5.3)

Sim cards are easily available at PNCC in Koror and offer 3G and data options. There are pre-paid and post-paid options for both voice and data.

There are three data options for using a wireless hotspot network throughout Palau. Connection from hotel and restaurant premises is available, enabling users to connect via WiFi throughout Koror and the main Islands of Palau.

Satellite

There is no current limitation on the import and use of portable satellite phone systems in Palau.

For more information on telecoms contacts, please see the following link: 4.10 Additional Services Contact List 

 

Telephone Services

Is there an existing landline telephone network?

Yes 

Does it allow international calls?

Yes    

Number and Length of Downtime Periods (on average)

Unknown 

Mobile Phone Providers

PNCC

Approximate Percentage of National Coverage

60%


Telecommunications Regulations

The Palau Division of Communications (PDoC) currently provides the regulatory framework for the communication sector. PNCC is the semi-government agency responsible for operating and regulating the main network in Palau.

There are currently no restrictions on the import and use of satellite phones in Palau nor on the import of VHF and HF radio equipment. While such goods may be for humanitarian use, the allocation of channels and frequency use is controlled and regulated. Permission must be sought to use VHF and HF systems, as well as to use the frequencies.

 

Regulations on Usage and Import

 

Regulations in Place?

Regulating Authority

Satellite

No 

Division of Communications

HF Radio

Yes

Division of Communications

UHF/VHF/HF Radio: Handheld, Base and Mobile

Yes

Division of Communications

UHF/VHF Repeaters

Yes

Division of Communications 

GPS

No

 

VSAT

No

Division of Communications

Individual Network Operator Licenses Required?

Yes

Frequency Licenses Required?

Yes


Existing Humanitarian Telecoms Systems

There are no existing humanitarian telecoms systems in place.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

At the time of writing, Palau Net is the main ISP in Palau.

 

Internet Service Providers

Are there ISPs available?

Yes

If yes, are they privately or government owned?

Both

Dial-up only?

Both 

Approximate Rates (local currency and USD - $)

  
 

Dial-up

 

Broadband 

USD 10/7 hours 

Max Leasable ‘Dedicated’ Bandwidth

Unknown

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

PNCC is the only mobile voice network operator in Palau, whilst there are 3 options for mobile data networks.

For information on MNOs please visit the GSM Association website.

 

Company

 

Number of Agent
Outlets by Area

Network Strength
by Area

Contracted for Humanitarian or
Government Cash Transfer
Programmes?

Services Offered

(i.e. Merchant Payment,
Bulk Disbursement,
Receive
& Make Payment)

PNCC

 

Koror
Main office

Good in Koror
and Babeldoab

No

 

Palau net

Unknown

Good in Koror
and Babeldoab

No

 

Palau
Wifi
 

Unknown

Good in Koror
and Babeldoab

No

 
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