INTERNET AFFORDABILITY IN BELIZE On the other hand, computers and internet service, while readily available in most urban center and some rural ones as well in Belize, is just not affordable for the average Belizean as Figure 8 reveals. Figure 8 – Internet Affordability (Standard Home Internet Service Plan) High Speed Internet Service Monthly Charges BZE$ % GDP Per Capita 2008 Annual Figures (BZE$12,920) 256K $100 9% 512K $179 17% 1MB $300 28% 2MB $500 46% 4MB $850 79% Source: Belize Telecommunication Limited The above figure reveals that even for a very few companies (with the exception of 1MB of internet service, the average the major industries) have invested in Belizean would have to spend more than dedicated data lines or extensive office ¼ of their annual income to afford it. A 4 automation. As there are only a small MB household internet connection (very number of consumers currently on-line common in households in the Caribbean) (and most of these are tourists), there is would cost the average Belizean a still little rationale for companies to use mortgage payment (and a high one at the Internet as a business medium (except that!) or more than ¾ of their annual for the tourism industry). Most are using it income. This is perhaps the reason why for e-mail and for a basic web presence, only 13.1% of Belizeans have internet in i.e., static web sites. However, if the their homes. internet rates were to decrease, many It is a very similar story within the Belizean business community. Although most companies have PCs and Internet access, Belize ICT National Strategy more Belizeans would go online which would spur the development of more ebusiness in Belize. 26