Answer ... (a) Telecommunications
With the exception of establishing or operating a private communications network that does not use wireless communication systems, telecommunications activities require a licence from the National Telecoms Regulation Authority (NTRA). Currently, the NTRA issues four main types of licences (with various specific sub-licences falling under them):
- fixed services licences (including landline services licences and data services licences);
- wireless services licences (including mobile services licences, satellite services licences, wireless trunk services licences, Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) licences and navigation licences);
- international services licences to construct and operate international telecoms gateways; and
- licences to construct, operate and lease infrastructure for telecoms networks (ie, infrastructure leasing).
Additionally, if a licence is not covered under the licensing system, a company may still apply to the NTRA for a new licence, detailing the activities it intends to undertake; and the NTRA may consider issuing such a licence.
In the case of new items or equipment introduced to the Egyptian market (whether through import, manufacture, assembly or usage) that relates to telecommunications, the NTRA will also issue ‘type approvals’ to ensure compliance with all telecommunications regulations. There are several tiers of type approvals, as follows:
- the light scheme;
- the intermediate scheme; and
- the tight scheme.
Determining which tier applies depends on several factors, including:
- the country of manufacture; and
- the existence of International Organization for Standardization certification.
The Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) is responsible for licences relating to e-signatures. Currently, only four companies have such a licence in Egypt, in addition to the licence which is granted by the Ministry of Finance (Government Electronic Certification Authority). This licence is granted on a needs basis, rather than on a request basis.
One arm of the ITIDA, the Egyptian Root Certificate Authority, issues digital certificates to certificate service providers for the provision of a solid base or digital infrastructure for e-commerce platforms and applications, as well as the use of e-signatures in Egypt.
(b) Internet
The data services licence mentioned above includes the following sub-licences:
- Internet Service Provider – Class A, for internet connectivity (Class A) and Voice Over Internet Protocol services provision; and
- Internet Connectivity – Class B.
In some cases, a licence or approval may also be required from the Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) if the scope of activities intersects with its authority.
(c) Media
It is not permitted to establish, operate or advertise any media outlet or website without the necessary licence from the SCMR. A licence is also required for any content distribution services.
(d) Social media
In addition to the licences required for media operators, non-Egyptian media outlets and their websites, and non-Egyptian websites that provide news, media or e-commerce advertising services that include content relating to the promotion of businesses, services, products or people, and that wish to operate in Egypt, must obtain a licence from the SCMR.