Use of LIRNEasia research in Myanmar Universal Service Strategy public consultation document The results of the nationally representative survey on ICT use and information needs conducted in 2016 were quoted extensively in Myanmar’s Universal Service Strategy public consultation document released by the Ministry of Transport and Communications in January 2018. The research is used to address issues pertaining to 1. Affordability 2. Ownership of devices 3. Digital skills Area Affordability Expenditure on devices Research quoted PTD’s use/interpretation of data and recommendations MMK 105,198 (USD 85) was spent Most people prefer to save up until on purchasing a mobile phone. they can afford a smartphone. (See section on household/individual ownership for recommendations, as two used in tandem) Expenditure on Monthly income The median income was used to top-ups Average: MMK 265,620 (USD 221) determine if less than 2% of an Average urban: MMK individual’s income could be spent 352,941(USD 292) on a 1GB of broadband data. Average rural: MMK 228,017 Given that the cost of 2GB of data (USD 189) was MMK 3000 in 2017 (from an external source), it was determined Median: MMK 200,000 (USD 165) that the 2% target developed by A4AI could be met, deeming broadband affordable. Ownership of devices Household/indi Household ownership of mobile There is a trend of people wanting vidual mobile phones stood at 83% in 2016 to own their personal phones, and a ownership large proportion of the population Mobile ownership increased from owns mobile phones. No need make 39% in 2015 to 61% in 2016. immediate steps regarding end user Mobile ownership in rural areas devices at large. However, steps increased from 26% to 53% may need to be taken to make within the year. services available to marginalized groups. Gender gap in 72% of men owned mobile The USF will monitor mobile mobile/smartp phones vs. 52% of women ownership trends. If the gender gap hone (gender gap) is not closing, special additional ownership measures shall be taken. Smartphone ownership amongst