Tom Purves observes that Canada [is] Worse than 3rd World Countries when it comes to Mobile Data Access. Although globally Canada has one of the higher percentages of people online and one of the higher percentages of broadband users, those who access the Internet using a PDA or cell phone are paying through the nose… to the tune of $1,600 to transfer 500MB of data.

He says, “If you don’t live in Canada but you or your small business depends on mobile connectivity or net neutrality in general, don’t come here.” He might be overstating it somewhat, though the latter part of the statement is certainly true… the CRTC has not been helpful in ensuring that rates stay down, nor has competition. You’d think the system access fee would buy you something, but it doesn’t, really.

Tom Purves’ article includes an arresting graphic and a link to a Google spreadsheet that suggests you can get cheaper data access in Rwanda than anywhere in Canada.

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