Pakistan’s delayed telecom spectrum allocation could cost up to $4.3 billion in GDP losses by 2030, warns GSMA. The telecom body urges fair pricing in the 2025 auction to avoid hindering digital growth and 5G development, emphasizing the need for sustainable policies and infrastructure-focused approaches.
The merger between PTCL’s Ufone and Telenor Pakistan, aimed at creating the country’s largest mobile operator, faces delays due to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan’s (SECP) ongoing review. The deal, approved by the Competition Commission of Pakistan, is crucial for increasing competition and foreign investment in the telecom sector.
Jordan’s government has approved an initiative to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets within a year. This framework will align with global standards, enhance the country’s competitiveness, and foster a digital economy. The Jordan Securities Commission will lead the development of the legal and technical infrastructure for virtual assets.
Starting 1 February, Egypt’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) will block the activation of mobile phones that don’t meet international standards set by the GSM Association. This move follows new taxes on imported phones and aims to ensure high-quality telecommunication services, safeguard public health, and support local electronics manufacturing.
Oman is set to release an updated AI policy in early 2025, with a focus on advancing AI development, boosting the digital economy, and protecting national interests. The government aims to increase AI sector contributions to GDP and expand its AI capabilities, including a large language model and open data platform.
Qatar has launched the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index to ensure equal access to digital services for all members of society. The report highlights the country’s progress in digital infrastructure and skills development, with goals to further improve digital access, competencies, and trust by 2030, aligning with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030.
Oman will release a revised national AI policy in early 2025, incorporating sector developments and feedback. The updated policy will drive AI development and safeguard national interests. The government aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP and develop an Omani large language model and AI studio.
The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) of Egypt will begin enforcing a ban on the activation of non-compliant mobile phones starting February 1st. The move aims to protect user safety, improve telecom service quality, and ensure compliance with internationally approved standards. Citizens are urged to verify devices before purchase.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has revoked the licences of 41 A2P SMS aggregators for failing to renew certifications and continuing operations with expired licences. Affected companies have been instructed to surrender their licences and clear any dues within 30 days, while new applications for SMS aggregator licences are now invited.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) will soon introduce new software to detect and prevent the use of unapproved mobile phones. The TRC urges the public to avoid purchasing such devices, aiming to strengthen regulatory control and protect users from potentially harmful phones.
