Telecom De-Regulation Policy Approved
Only one year afer the expiry of PTCLs monopoly the cabinet has finally approved the deregulation policy, 'formally'. The announcement would appear to clear the way for PTA to issue application forms for the new Local Loop and LDI licences. These licences were slated to be issued in December 2003.

"The Cabinet formally approved the Telecom De-Regulation Policy already agreed to in principle, by the Cabinet in July 2003 after fixing the validity of the license for Long Loop and Long Distance International Telecom Services at 20-years.

The Information Technology and Telecom Division will notify the approved policy which will be reviewed after every five-years.

The policy is designed to achieve the objectives of provision of telecom services at competitive and affordable rates, infrastructure development, increase in telelcom density and private sector investment in the telecommunications sector, with minimum exposure to government revenue base in the short term and enable the PTA to invite Expressions of interest from potential investors.

The World Bank has already termed this policy as a progressive telecommunication deregulation policy reflecting international best practices. "


- posted @ Monday, January 12, 2004