Chris Stavropoulos from Xcrew.net has analyzed the cost of bandwidth comparing Canada versus the rest of the world:

There are several key points of interest in this data. 1. The only country where unlimited bandwidth is actually more expensive than the 300 GB limit is Canada. This can be attributed to the fact that Canadian providers include a per-GB overage charge above 300 GB.

2. Unlimited bandwidth in Canada is up to 90 times more expensive than other countries.

3. By limiting the bandwidth to the Canadian provider maximum of 300 GB, Canadian customers are still paying more than twice that of any other country.

4. The pricing for Rogers in the 300 GB limited dataset is comparable to other Canadian Internet providers while their unlimited pricing is much closer to the rest of the world. This is due to the fact that Rogers currently has a $50 maximum charge for overage fees. Usage based billing (UBB) pricing is expected to come into effect for cable internet providers later this year which is likely to bring their pricing more in line with DSL providers such as Bell. This data shows that of the countries examined Canada is by far the most expensive country to surf the web. This is due in no small part to monopolistic practices such as UBB brought about by the incumbent telecommunications providers. The inability of Canadian carriers to provide competitive levels of service and pricing compared to other countries is a sad testament to the lack of diversity and competition in the Canadian marketplace.

There’s not much to say, as the numbers speak for themselves. Canadians are kind people, yet we only complain, but don’t break out the torches and pitchforks. We also have relatively short term memories (straight out of movie Memento). Big Canadian telcos are smart enough to recognize this, and prey upon us at their will.

Times are changing though, as the StoptheMeter.ca campaign has reached over 334,000 signatures. This ‘noise’ caused by you and I has resulted in the CRTC head being called in front of a MP committee to explain his actions.

Let’s continue to make our voices heard! Visit StoptheMeter.ca and tell your friends!