Telecommunications

Egypt’s IT industry has been one of the fastest growing in the world. In 2000 the government announced a three-year plan to make the country a regional information technology (IT) hub. The plan was supplemented by Egypt’s signing of world Trade Organization Basic Telecommunications Agreement in June 2002 thereby committing itself to greater liberalization of the sector. As such, the telecoms network has undergone extensive modernization in recent years. In April 2003, Egypt became the 59th member of the WTO IT Agreement, undertaking to remove all tariffs, duties and charges on IT imports by January 2005.

Under the national IT plan, the government aims to raise software exports from US$ 100 million in 2002 to US$ 1 billion within three years.

Already over 5,500 new graduates have entered the sector since 2000, owing to the State-financed IT training programs, which are certified by multinational IT companies.

The efforts of the Egyptian government towards encouraging private participation in the provision of services lead to a swift rollout of modern telecommunication networks throughout Egypt. The number of installed telephone lines is currently around 11. 2 million lines, with more than 100 % digitization giving rise to tele-density of around 12. 6% on a nationwide average that goes up to 23. 1% in big cities and industrial zones. In fact, Egyptian fixed – line telecommunication services are among the fastest growing in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The GSM network of the two mobile phone operators has covered more than 90% of the populated area in Egypt. Access to digital leased lines, Frame relay and ATM can be provided in all cities in Egypt from any of the licensed operators. Access to internet services can be provided by any of the 149 ISPs working throughout Egypt.