Bermuda-based Digicel yesterday launched its mobile services in El Salvador.

The fast-growing cell phone company’s new service will reach communities that have been previously unserved in the Central American country — offering 95 percent population coverage, high value offers and innovative mobile services such as true per second billing.

El Salvador has a population of 7 million people with mobile penetration at approximately 33 percent. The country’s mobile market continues to enjoy sustained growth with mobile phones overtaking fixed lines service in 2002.

“We are delighted to be in El Salvador and very optimistic about the future potential for growth in this market,” said Digicel Group chairman Denis O’Brien. “El Salvador is a very exciting marketplace for Digicel with low penetration, a young population and a buoyant economy. We look forward to growing our operation and bringing the best quality service to the people of El Salvador.”

Digicel first entered the El Salvador market through its acquisition of Digicel Holdings Ltd last year and has made an initial commitment of more than $150 million.