Telecom Egypt contemplates MVNO launch

Telecom Egypt is reported to be looking to launch an MVNO service by the end of this year. Talks to buy out Vodafone’s 55 per cent stake in Vodafone Egypt broke down last year.

It had been reported last year that Telecom Egypt would have to pay around GBP3 billion (US$4.79 billion) to buy out the Vodafone holding in the company.

Telecom Egypt chairman Akil Beshir said the company is in talks with the telecom regulator to secure an MVNO licence.

“Many people do not expect this government to take a major decision like introducing an MVNO, but we keep working on it,” Beshir told Reuters, adding a decision to grant the licence could come towards the end of the year.