Egypt’s Telecom Regulator Introduces Affordable Digital Inclusion Packages and Approves Select Price Adjustments
The National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) has directed telecom operators in Egypt to introduce new, more affordable packages for fixed internet and mobile services to support digital inclusion, while approving limited price adjustments for certain telecom services.
Under the new directives, a fixed broadband package priced at EGP 150 has been introduced, compared to the previous entry-level package priced at EGP 210. Additionally, a new mobile package priced at EGP 5 has been made available, replacing the previous minimum offering of approximately EGP 13.
The regulator also mandated free access to all government and educational websites عبر fixed and mobile internet networks, even after users exhaust their data allowances, reinforcing efforts to enhance accessibility to essential digital services.
These measures are part of a broader pricing adjustment plan, with increases ranging between 9% and 15% on select service bundles, inclusive of taxes. Notably, the authority confirmed that prices for fixed and mobile voice minutes, recharge cards, and mobile wallet services will remain unchanged.
The NTRA stated that the decision aims to support the sustainability and development of telecom services, enabling operators to expand investments in network upgrades, improve service quality, and enhance operational efficiency amid rising demand.
The authority noted that internet usage has grown significantly, with fixed broadband consumption increasing by 36% over the past year, placing additional pressure on network infrastructure and highlighting the need to align pricing with actual service costs.
Price adjustments were driven by multiple economic and operational factors, including currency fluctuations, rising electricity and fuel costs—particularly diesel used in mobile network operations—as well as increased expenses related to labor, infrastructure development, and global supply chain disruptions. The sector has also faced higher costs for electronic components and network equipment.
The NTRA expects these changes to support continued investment in network expansion and modernization, while reaffirming its commitment to monitoring service quality and protecting consumer rights, ensuring a balanced approach between affordability and service standards.