Orascom Telecom Algerie awarded 15-year 3G licence

Global Telecom Holding says that its Algerian subsidiary Orascom Telecom Algerie (OTA) has been awarded one of the three provisional 3G licences offered in Algeria.

Final licences with the relevant coverage obligations are expected to be granted after payment of fees, satisfaction of the conditions indicated in the tender documents, and receipt of clearances and approvals from various governmental authorities. The 3G licence will cost DZD3 billion (US$40 million) and will be valid for 15 years, after which successive renewals will be in five year fixed terms.

OTA also received an exceptional approval from the Bank of Algeria allowing it to make foreign payments to acquire equipment exclusively dedicated to 3G technologies.