Morocco’s Telecom Giants Secure 5G Licenses in Landmark MAD 2.1 Billion Deal
Morocco’s telecommunications landscape has entered a new era with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) officially granting 5G licenses to the nation’s three major operators. Following a robust competitive bidding process initiated on July 11, Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange have successfully secured the coveted next-generation network licenses. This significant development marks a crucial step in Morocco’s digital transformation journey, with the total value of these licenses reaching an impressive MAD 2.1 billion ($210 million), reflecting a substantial investment in the country’s technological future.
Unpacking the 5G Spectrum Allocation and Investment
The ANRT’s official press release detailed the financial contributions and bandwidth allocations for each telecom provider. Itissalat Al-Maghrib, commonly known as Maroc Telecom, committed MAD 900 million ($90 million) to acquire 120 MHz of bandwidth, signaling its intent to lead the charge in 5G deployment. Wana Corporate (Inwi) and Médi Telecom (Orange) each secured their licenses for MAD 600 million ($60 million), obtaining 70 MHz of bandwidth initially. It’s noteworthy that the minimum reserve price for each 5G license was set at MAD 600 million, corresponding to 70 MHz. Crucially, the ANRT plans for all three operators to eventually access an equal 120 MHz of bandwidth by leveraging additional frequency bands designated for 5G expansion. These newly acquired licenses are valid for a duration of 20 years and come with renewal options, underscoring a long-term commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure. Initial coverage targets were also established as part of the licensing terms, aiming to ensure widespread access to this advanced technology.
This strategic move by the ANRT positions Morocco at the forefront of African digital connectivity. The substantial investment by Maroc Telecom, Inwi, and Orange not only signifies their confidence in the Moroccan market but also promises to unlock a wealth of opportunities across various sectors, from smart cities and IoT to enhanced mobile experiences for millions of users. The rollout of 5G is poised to accelerate Morocco’s economic growth and foster innovation, solidifying its standing as a leader in technological adoption on the continent.
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