The Egyptian mobile phone market is experiencing a significant downturn, with traders and industry experts calling for relief from high costs and taxes. According to Mohamed El-Haddad, a member of the Giza Chamber of Commerce, the current financial burdens on mobile phones are unsustainable and require immediate attention. With the increasing reliance on mobile phones for daily activities, El-Haddad emphasized that these devices can no longer be considered luxury items.

El-Haddad urged the government and regulatory bodies, including the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, to reassess the fees and taxes imposed on mobile phones and reduce them to alleviate the burden on consumers. This, he believes, would help stimulate market activity and address the current stagnation in sales. The Egyptian consumer has faced repeated price increases, making it difficult for many to afford mobile phones, especially given their growing importance in daily life.

The Giza Chamber of Commerce's mobile phone traders' committee has requested that mobile phone manufacturers and suppliers operating in Egypt review their pricing policies and profit margins. They aim to introduce more competitive prices that align with the purchasing power of Egyptian consumers, which would help restore consumer trust and boost demand for various mobile phone categories.

El-Haddad stressed that the push for reduced fees and revised pricing policies is not intended to harm the local industry or undermine efforts to support domestic manufacturing. Instead, it seeks to strike a balance between supporting local production and providing affordable mobile phones to consumers. This balance is crucial for maintaining a thriving market and ensuring the industry's continued growth.

To achieve a stable mobile phone market, El-Haddad emphasized the need for cooperation and coordination among government agencies, sector companies, and traders. This would involve reviewing existing fees and pricing policies to ensure they align with the needs of both the local industry and consumers. By working together, stakeholders can create a more favorable business environment that benefits all parties involved.

The Giza Chamber of Commerce's mobile phone traders' committee reiterated its call for serious and swift consideration of these demands. By addressing the high costs and taxes associated with mobile phones, the government and industry stakeholders can help revitalize the market, ensure the sector's stability, and promote economic growth.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a more balanced and sustainable mobile phone market in Egypt, where consumers have access to affordable devices, and local manufacturers and traders can operate profitably. By working together to address the current challenges, stakeholders can help drive growth, increase sales, and improve the overall competitiveness of the Egyptian mobile phone industry.

Key points

  • Egyptian mobile phone traders call for reduced fees and revised pricing policies to alleviate the burden on consumers and stimulate market activity.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.