Операторы связи получат льготные кредиты на оборудование

Telecom operators are set to gain access to preferential loans aimed at acquiring equipment, according to a recent report. The telecom business is willing to accept various conditions, provided the interest rates on these loans drop below the current levels. This initiative will predominantly target the development of 5G networks in major cities.

Insiders have confirmed to Vedomosti that telecommunications companies may receive further support for purchasing domestic equipment for their backbone communication networks and rolling out 5G services. This initiative has been outlined in the federal project’s blueprint titled “Infrastructure for Internet Access” as part of the upcoming national project focused on “Data Economy.” The conversation around this proposal involves key market players and regulatory authorities.

The preferential interest rates are intended for acquiring equipment crucial for establishing 5G networks in cities with populations exceeding one million. Additionally, these loans can be utilized for purchasing Russian-made equipment designed for backbone communication lines to ensure fixed broadband access with speeds starting from 1 Gbps to apartment buildings in towns with a population ranging from 100,000 to one million, as per the preliminary draft of the federal project. Specific interest rates have yet to be detailed in the document.

In late October, the Central Bank raised the key interest rate to 21% per annum, which has been a point of concern for telecom operators. The industry remains on edge as they await further developments concerning these potential financial benefits.