The licences will allow carriers to operate both fixed-line and mobile networks.
“The unified telecom license will be activated before June 30 2014,” said Atef Helmy, Egypt’s telecommunications minister.
The move will enable fixed-line incumbent Telecom Egypt to offer mobile services, allowing it to compete with Egypt’s three mobile providers: Vodafone Egypt, Mobinil and Etisalat Egypt.
Telecom Egypt said last week that it expects the country’s newly formed government to grant it a licence to provide mobile services within the next two months.
Mobile operations have had a big impact on Telecom Egypt’s fixed-line services, and the company has been seeking a way to expand its exposure to mobile services.
The state-controlled operator has been largely reliant on its data business to boost its revenue, but has been waiting to launch a new mobile operation with Vodafone.
