Unlocking Connectivity: A Deep Dive into Macedonia’s Evolving Internet Ecosystem

• Current State of Internet Access in Macedonia
• Emerging Technologies Shaping Connectivity
• Key Players and Market Dynamics
• Projected Expansion and User Adoption
• Connectivity Disparities Across Regions
• Anticipating the Next Wave of Internet Innovation
• Barriers to Progress and Areas for Growth
• Sources & References

“The summer of 2025 brought a surge of activity in digital health and telemedicine.” (source)

Current State of Internet Access in Macedonia

North Macedonia has made significant strides in expanding internet access over the past decade, transitioning from limited broadband coverage to a more robust digital infrastructure. As of 2023, the country boasts an internet penetration rate of approximately 82%, according to the Digital 2023: North Macedonia report. This growth is driven by both public and private sector investments in fiber-optic networks, mobile broadband, and emerging satellite solutions.

Fiber-Optic Expansion

• Major telecom operators, such as Makedonski Telekom and A1 Macedonia, have accelerated the deployment of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) services, particularly in urban centers like Skopje, Bitola, and Tetovo.
• By mid-2023, over 60% of households in urban areas had access to high-speed fiber connections, offering speeds up to 1 Gbps (Makedonski Telekom).
• Rural areas, however, still lag behind, with less than 30% fiber coverage, prompting government initiatives to bridge the digital divide through subsidies and public-private partnerships.

Mobile Broadband and 5G Rollout

• Mobile internet remains a crucial access point, with 4G LTE covering over 98% of the population (A1 Macedonia).
• In 2022, North Macedonia launched its first commercial 5G services, initially targeting major cities and industrial zones. The 5G rollout is expected to reach nationwide coverage by 2025, enhancing connectivity for both consumers and businesses (Agency for Electronic Communications).

Satellite and Alternative Solutions

• For remote and mountainous regions, satellite internet providers like Starlink have begun offering services, providing new opportunities for connectivity where terrestrial infrastructure is impractical (Starlink Coverage Map).
• These solutions are seen as the “final frontier” in achieving universal internet access, though high costs and regulatory hurdles remain challenges.

Overall, North Macedonia is on a positive trajectory toward comprehensive internet access, leveraging a mix of fiber, mobile, and satellite technologies to connect its population and drive digital transformation.

Emerging Technologies Shaping Connectivity

Internet access in Macedonia has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving from basic broadband to advanced fiber-optic networks and exploring the potential of next-generation satellite connectivity. This evolution is driven by both public and private sector investments, aiming to bridge the digital divide and foster economic growth.

Fiber-Optic Expansion

Fiber-optic infrastructure is at the core of Macedonia’s connectivity strategy. As of 2023, over 60% of households in North Macedonia have access to high-speed fiber-optic internet, a substantial increase from just 25% in 2018 (State Statistical Office). Leading providers such as Makedonski Telekom and A1 Macedonia have accelerated their rollout of gigabit-capable networks, targeting urban centers and gradually expanding to suburban and rural areas. The government’s National Broadband Plan aims for 100% coverage of ultra-fast broadband (at least 100 Mbps) by 2025 (Ministry of Information Society and Administration).

Mobile and 5G Connectivity

Mobile internet remains a vital component of Macedonia’s digital landscape. 4G LTE coverage exceeds 98% of the population, and the country is preparing for the commercial launch of 5G services. In 2022, the Agency for Electronic Communications (AEC) allocated spectrum for 5G, with pilot projects underway in Skopje and other major cities (Agency for Electronic Communications). 5G is expected to unlock new opportunities for smart cities, IoT, and advanced digital services.

• 4G LTE coverage: 98% of the population
• Fiber-optic access: 60% of households
• 5G rollout: Pilot projects in progress

Satellite Internet: The Final Frontier

For remote and underserved regions, satellite internet is emerging as a promising solution. Global providers like Starlink have begun offering services in North Macedonia, with speeds ranging from 50 to 200 Mbps (Starlink Coverage Map). This technology is particularly impactful for mountainous and rural communities where terrestrial infrastructure is challenging to deploy.

In summary, Macedonia’s internet access landscape is rapidly advancing, blending fiber-optic, mobile, and satellite technologies to ensure nationwide connectivity. These emerging technologies are not only enhancing digital inclusion but also positioning the country for future innovation and economic resilience.

Key Players and Market Dynamics

The landscape of internet access in North Macedonia has evolved rapidly over the past decade, driven by both public and private sector initiatives. The country has made significant strides in expanding broadband infrastructure, with a particular focus on fiber-optic networks. As of 2023, the fixed broadband penetration rate reached approximately 70%, with fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) connections accounting for a growing share of subscriptions (Statista).

Key Players

• Makedonski Telekom: The dominant fixed-line and broadband provider, Makedonski Telekom, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom, leads the market with extensive fiber coverage in urban centers. The company has invested heavily in FTTH, aiming to cover 80% of households by 2025 (Makedonski Telekom).
• Telekabel: As a major competitor, Telekabel offers both cable and fiber internet services, focusing on competitive pricing and bundled packages. The company has expanded its fiber network to secondary cities and rural areas (Telekabel).
• Neotel: Specializing in business and residential broadband, Neotel leverages both wireless and fiber technologies. It is recognized for innovative solutions, including fixed wireless access in underserved regions (Neotel).
• Lycamobile and A1 Macedonia: In the mobile broadband segment, A1 Macedonia and Lycamobile are key players, driving 4G and emerging 5G adoption. Mobile internet penetration exceeds 90%, reflecting the importance of wireless connectivity (A1 Macedonia).

Market Dynamics

• Urban-Rural Divide: While urban areas enjoy high-speed fiber access, rural regions still rely on DSL, cable, or wireless solutions. Government-backed projects, often co-financed by the EU, aim to bridge this gap (European Commission).
• Regulatory Environment: The Agency for Electronic Communications (AEC) enforces open access and competition, fostering investment and service quality improvements (AEC).
• Emerging Technologies: Satellite internet, such as Starlink, is being piloted to reach the “final frontier” of remote and mountainous areas, promising universal coverage in the coming years (Starlink).

Overall, North Macedonia’s internet market is characterized by robust competition, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and a clear trajectory toward nationwide high-speed connectivity.

Projected Expansion and User Adoption

North Macedonia has made significant strides in expanding internet access over the past decade, transitioning from basic broadband to advanced fiber-optic infrastructure. As of 2023, the country’s internet penetration rate reached approximately 82%, up from 74% in 2018, reflecting both urban and rural connectivity improvements (DataReportal).

Fiber-Optic Expansion

• Major telecom operators, such as Makedonski Telekom and A1 Macedonia, have accelerated the rollout of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks. By mid-2023, FTTH coverage reached over 60% of households in urban centers, with ongoing projects targeting smaller towns and rural areas (Makedonski Telekom).
• Government initiatives, including the National Broadband Plan, aim to achieve 100% high-speed internet coverage by 2027, leveraging EU funding and public-private partnerships (Ministry of Information Society and Administration).

Mobile and Satellite Connectivity

• 4G LTE coverage is now available to over 98% of the population, and 5G pilot projects are underway in Skopje and other major cities, with commercial rollout expected by 2025 (Agency for Electronic Communications).
• For remote and mountainous regions, satellite internet providers such as Starlink have begun offering services, bridging the digital divide where terrestrial infrastructure is not feasible (Starlink Coverage Map).

User Adoption Trends

• Internet usage is highest among the 16-34 age group, with over 95% reporting daily access. E-commerce, e-government, and digital banking services are key drivers of adoption (Eurostat).
• Digital literacy programs and affordable device initiatives are being implemented to boost adoption among older adults and low-income households.

Looking ahead, North Macedonia’s commitment to universal high-speed internet access, combined with emerging technologies like 5G and satellite broadband, positions the country to bridge remaining gaps and foster inclusive digital growth.

Connectivity Disparities Across Regions

Internet access in Macedonia (officially North Macedonia) has seen significant progress over the past decade, yet notable disparities persist between urban and rural regions. As of 2023, the country’s internet penetration rate stands at approximately 82%, with over 1.7 million users connected (DataReportal). However, the quality and speed of connections vary widely, reflecting a digital divide that mirrors broader socioeconomic differences.

Urban Fiber Expansion

• Major cities such as Skopje, Bitola, and Tetovo benefit from extensive fiber-optic infrastructure, with providers like Makedonski Telekom and A1 Macedonia offering gigabit speeds to households and businesses (Makedonski Telekom).
• Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) coverage in urban areas exceeds 70%, supporting high-speed internet, IPTV, and advanced digital services.
• Competition among ISPs has driven down prices and improved service quality in these regions.

Rural and Remote Challenges

• Rural areas, particularly in the mountainous west and southeast, lag behind, with many communities relying on outdated DSL or mobile broadband connections.
• According to the Agency for Electronic Communications, only about 40% of rural households have access to fixed broadband above 30 Mbps (AEK).
• Mobile internet, primarily 4G, fills some gaps, but coverage and speeds are inconsistent, and data costs remain a barrier for low-income users.

Bridging the Gap: Initiatives and the “Final Frontier”

• The government, supported by EU funds, has launched projects to extend fiber networks and subsidize rural connectivity, aiming for 100% broadband coverage by 2027 (European Commission).
• Satellite internet, including services like Starlink, is emerging as a “final frontier” for the most isolated villages, though high costs and regulatory hurdles limit widespread adoption (Starlink).

While Macedonia’s urban centers enjoy world-class connectivity, rural and remote regions remain underserved. Bridging this digital divide is crucial for economic development, education, and social inclusion, making ongoing infrastructure investment and innovative solutions essential for the country’s digital future.

Anticipating the Next Wave of Internet Innovation

North Macedonia has made significant strides in expanding and modernizing its internet infrastructure over the past decade. As of 2023, internet penetration in the country reached approximately 82%, a notable increase from previous years, reflecting both urban and rural connectivity improvements (DataReportal). The government and private sector have prioritized fiber-optic deployment, with major cities like Skopje, Bitola, and Tetovo now boasting high-speed fiber connections capable of delivering gigabit speeds to households and businesses.

According to the Agency for Electronic Communications, over 60% of fixed broadband subscriptions in North Macedonia are now fiber-based, a figure that continues to grow as legacy copper networks are phased out (AEK Annual Reports). This transition has enabled faster, more reliable internet access, supporting the country’s ambitions for digital transformation and e-government services.

However, the digital divide persists, particularly in remote and mountainous regions where fiber deployment is economically challenging. To address this, North Macedonia is exploring alternative technologies, including fixed wireless access (FWA) and satellite internet. The arrival of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, such as Starlink, has begun to offer new possibilities for universal coverage, with pilot projects underway to connect underserved communities (Starlink Coverage Map).

• Urban Fiber Expansion: Major ISPs like Makedonski Telekom and A1 Macedonia have announced plans to extend fiber coverage to 90% of urban households by 2025.
• Rural Connectivity Initiatives: Government-backed programs are subsidizing last-mile solutions, including FWA and satellite, to bridge the rural gap.
• 5G Rollout: The first commercial 5G services launched in 2022, with nationwide coverage targeted by 2025, further enhancing mobile broadband speeds and reliability (A1 Macedonia 5G).

Looking ahead, North Macedonia’s internet landscape is poised for a new wave of innovation. The convergence of fiber, 5G, and satellite technologies promises to deliver near-universal, high-speed access, empowering digital entrepreneurship, remote education, and smart city initiatives. As the country continues to invest in next-generation infrastructure, it stands as a regional example of how diverse technologies can be harnessed to overcome geographic and economic barriers to connectivity.

Barriers to Progress and Areas for Growth

Despite notable advancements in digital infrastructure, internet access in Macedonia (officially North Macedonia) faces persistent barriers that hinder universal connectivity and digital inclusion. The country has made significant progress in expanding fiber-optic networks, with the latest data showing that fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) coverage reached approximately 60% of households in 2023 (FTTH Council Europe). However, several challenges remain on the path to comprehensive, high-quality internet access for all citizens.

• Urban-Rural Divide: While urban centers like Skopje and Bitola enjoy high-speed fiber connections, rural and mountainous regions lag behind. Only about 40% of rural households have access to fixed broadband, compared to over 80% in urban areas (European Commission). This digital divide limits educational and economic opportunities for rural populations.
• Affordability: Internet prices in Macedonia remain relatively high compared to average incomes. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reports that the cost of a basic broadband package represents over 3% of monthly gross national income per capita, exceeding the UN’s affordability target of 2% (ITU Statistics).
• Digital Literacy: Even where infrastructure exists, digital skills are a barrier. According to the European Commission, only 56% of Macedonians possess basic digital skills, limiting the effective use of online services and e-government platforms.
• Regulatory and Investment Hurdles: The sector faces regulatory bottlenecks and limited private investment, particularly in less profitable rural areas. Streamlining permit processes and incentivizing investment are critical for further expansion (World Bank).

Areas for growth include expanding fiber and 5G networks to underserved regions, reducing costs through regulatory reform, and investing in digital literacy programs. Additionally, exploring satellite internet solutions could help bridge the most remote gaps, bringing Macedonia closer to universal, high-quality internet access—the “final frontier” in its digital journey.

Sources & References

• Internet Access in Macedonia: From Fiber to the Final Frontier
• Makedonski Telekom
• A1 Macedonia 5G
• Starlink Coverage Map
• State Statistical Office
• Ministry of Information Society and Administration
• AEK Annual Reports
• Statista
• European Commission
• Ministry of Information Society and Administration
• FTTH Council Europe
• ITU Statistics
• World Bank