Algerian telecom regulator ARPT has awarded 3G licences to the three candidates, Algerie Telecom Mobile (Mobilis), Wataniya Telecom Algerie (Nedjma) and Orascom Telecom Algerie (Djezzy). The three existing operators met the technical and financial requirements of the licensing regulations, the ARPT said.
Vimpelcom, the controlling shareholder of Djezzy, said the licence will cost DZD 3 billion (USD 40 million) and be valid for 15 years. The ARPT will grant the final licences with the relevant coverage obligations after payment of the fees, satisfaction of the conditions in the tender documents and receipt of clearances and approvals from various government authorities. Djezzy, which has been the subject of government restrictions on its foreign currency transactions, received an exceptional approval from the Bank of Algeria to acquire foreign equipment for the 3G roll-out, Vimpelcom said.
