This report is a summary of information contained in the Millennium Communications Handbook which is authored by the BMI-TechKnowledge Group . In line with the reform programme agreed upon with the IMF, the government has gradually introduced liberalisation in the telecommunications sector.
Cellular services are, however, more competitive, with a five-year duopoly.
To foster this transformation, the government has in the process reviewed the mandate of TE and increased the decision-making capacity of the company. In response to the local pressures for value-added services and in line with international trends, the government has responded with the introduction of phased competition in certain market segments. In 1998, competition for cellular was introduced with the licensing of two operators. Increased competition has resulted in a higher customer base that is now expected to hit 1 million in early 2000, making Egypt the next largest market in Africa after South Africa. Government has also liberalised payphones services.