ICT is Egypt fastest-growing sector

The minister also highlighted Egypt's commitment to technological advancements, including the rollout of 5G, the expansion of submarine cables, the national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, and the newly launched eSIM services in the local market.

Ahram Online: The eSIM service has been launched in the Egyptian market. How does this step enhance digital transformation in Egypt?

Amr Talaat: The launch of embedded SIM (eSIM) technology significantly advances Egypt's digitization efforts. It aligns with global technological trends and reflects the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA)’s commitment to providing innovative tech solutions. eSIM enhances the telecom market's efficiency by offering users greater flexibility and sustainability, supporting the transition to a fully integrated digital society while reducing reliance on physical SIM cards.

AO: What benefits does this technology offer to Egyptian users?

AT: eSIM technology provides users with significant flexibility. They can easily switch between telecom operators without manually replacing SIM cards and quickly activate new numbers or transfer existing ones. Additionally, eSIM is more secure as it is embedded within devices, reducing theft and damage risks. This technology also simplifies choosing suitable offers from various providers, enhancing the overall user experience.

AO: The telecommunications sector’s share of GDP has increased over the past five years. What are your plans to maintain or further increase this share?

AT: The ICT sector has been Egypt's fastest-growing sector, with growth rates exceeding 16 percent. Its contribution to GDP increased from 3.2 percent in 2014 to 5.8 percent, and we aim to surpass eight percent in the coming years. Our strategy includes attracting domestic and foreign investments, deepening local manufacturing, fostering the electronics industry, and promoting outsourcing services. We aim to create a favourable environment for telecom investments, boost cloud computing, and expand international partnerships for submarine cables.

AO: What are the latest developments in the expansion of submarine cables?

AT: Egypt's unique geographical location allows over 90 percent of data traffic between Asia and Europe to pass through our waters. We currently operate 15 submarine cables, with five more under construction, and aim to reach 20 in the future. Our international digital infrastructure is expanding through initiatives like the Golden Corridor along the Suez Canal, which shortens routes between the East and West.

AO: When will 5G technology be fully available to citizens?

AT: Four mobile operators have been granted licenses for 5G services this year, with investments totalling $675 million. The operators are currently conducting trials, and we expect a full rollout by next year.

AO: What efforts is the ministry making to improve internet speeds in Egypt?

AT: Improving internet infrastructure is a cornerstone of our digital strategy. We have invested over $3 billion to enhance fixed internet services, resulting in a tenfold speed increase to 76.4 Mbps by 2024. Egypt now ranks as the top country in Africa for fixed internet speed. We are also connecting fibre optic cables to 9.3 million buildings in rural areas and expanding mobile towers to improve coverage.

AO: The government relies on the outsourcing industry as a key contributor to foreign revenue and GDP. What is the ministry’s vision for this sector?

AT: Outsourcing is a critical industry for Egypt, one of the fastest-growing global outsourcing destinations. Egypt's digital exports reached $6.2 billion in 2023, with outsourcing contributing $3.7 billion. We are enhancing training programmes to prepare young professionals for careers in this field, increasing the number of specialists from 90,000 in 2021/2022 to over 145,000 today.

AO: How does the "Cairo ICT" exhibition contribute to Egypt's digital transformation strategy?

AT: I was honoured to attend the "Cairo ICT" exhibition with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The exhibition showcases Egypt's progress in the ICT sector and its potential to attract international investments and outsourcing centres. The rapid growth of AI technology is also a focal point, as it impacts various sectors, emphasizing the need for Egypt to adopt these technologies to remain competitive.

AO: What is new in Egypt’s AI strategy for 2025-2030, and how is the ministry supporting its implementation?

AT: We are launching the second version of Egypt’s national AI strategy, focusing on six pillars: governance, ecosystem, information infrastructure, data, human resources, and technology. The ministry is building international partnerships and collaborating with academic institutions to implement projects addressing key healthcare, agriculture, and urban planning challenges while also preparing a qualified AI workforce.