TELECOMMUNICATIONS

LIBYA’S TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR IS DIVERSE. THE INDUSTRY HAS SEEN SIGNIFICANT DISRUPTION BUT A RETURN TO STABILITY AND PRODUCTIVE ENGAGEMENT IN THE LAST 18 MONTHS TO 2 YEARS. WHILST THIS BRIEF DOCUMENT HIGHLIGHTS THE MAJOR PLAYERS THERE ARE MANY MORE INCLUDING SEVERAL EMERGING IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR

PLEASE CONTACT THE BRITISH LIBYAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION IF YOU REQUIRE FURTHER INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE TO HELP GUIDE YOU IN DEVELOPING OPPORTUNITIES AND COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES IN LIBYA. 

SUMMARY

The telecommunications sector in Libya is dominated by two state-owned companies, Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC) and the General Post and Telecommunications Company (GPTC). LPTIC is responsible for overseeing the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Libya, while GPTC provides fixed-line telephone and internet services.

The mobile market is served by three operators: Libyana, Almadar, and Libya Telecom and Technology (LTT). Libyana is the largest operator with over 50% market share. The sector has faced challenges due to political instability and security concerns in the country, which have impacted infrastructure development and investments.

Despite these challenges, the sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with increasing demand for mobile broadband services and a shift towards digital communication. The government has recognized the importance of the sector for economic development and has implemented policies to promote investment and innovation in the sector. The country is also investing in fibre optic networks and other infrastructure to improve connectivity and data speeds.

Overall, the telecommunications sector in Libya has potential for growth and is expected to play a key role in the country’s economic development in the future.

The current exact value of the telecommunications sector in Libya is not available. However, the sector is considered an important contributor to the country’s economy and has potential for growth.

According to a report by the World Bank, the telecommunications sector in Libya contributed approximately 2.6% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2019. The report also notes that the sector has the potential to contribute significantly more to the country’s GDP if investments are made to expand and improve infrastructure, increase competition, and promote innovation.

In addition to its contribution to GDP, the sector also plays a key role in promoting social and economic development in the country. Access to telecommunications services is important for education, healthcare, and business activities, and can help to improve overall quality of life for people in the country.

Overall, while the exact value of the telecommunications sector in Libya is not known, it is considered an important sector for economic and social development, with significant potential for growth and investment. 

Some of the more recent advances in the blast few years haveincluded.

  • Hatif Libya contracts Infinera to provide an optical transport network to unserved areas of the country;
  • Silphium submarine cable linking Derna with Greece is again brought on stream;
  • LPTIC contracts Ericsson to maintain and develop the country’s telecom networks and infrastructure;
  • Government orders 50% reduction in internet subscription fees;
  • Al-Madar extends LTE service to Benghazi and Misrata;
  • LTT launches LTE-based fixed broadband network;
  • LPTIC signs $80 million contract with Arabsat to provide satellite broadband services;
  • Italy-Libya cable upgraded to support 100Gb/s technology;

  

Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC)

The Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC) is a state-owned company responsible for overseeing the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Libya. It was established in 2009 by the Libyan government, with the goal of improving the country’s communications infrastructure and promoting economic development.

Prior to the creation of LPTIC, the telecommunications sector in Libya was managed by several different state-owned companies, each responsible for a different aspect of the industry. These companies were later consolidated under LPTIC, which became the umbrella organization for all telecommunications and information technology activities in Libya.

LPTIC’s structure is hierarchical, with a board of directors at the top. The board is responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction and overseeing its operations. Below the board, there are several departments responsible for different areas of the business, such as finance, marketing, and operations.

LPTIC owns several subsidiary companies, including Libyan International Telecommunications Company (LITC), which manages Libya’s international telecommunications connections, and General Post and Telecommunications Company (GPTC), which provides fixed-line telephone and internet services in the country.

LPTIC has also invested in several international telecommunications companies, including South Africa’s MTN Group and Turkey’s Turkcell, in an effort to expand its reach and improve the quality of its services.

Over the years, LPTIC has faced challenges related to political instability and security concerns in Libya, which have impacted its operations and hindered its ability to invest in new infrastructure and technology. However, the company remains committed to improving the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Libya and supporting the country’s economic development.

LPTIC has played a key role in the development of the telecommunications sector in Libya. It has invested heavily in expanding the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and improving the quality of its services. This has included the deployment of high-speed mobile broadband networks and the expansion of fibre optic networks to improve connectivity and data speeds.

In addition to its telecommunications activities, LPTIC is also responsible for promoting the development of the information technology sector in Libya. It has supported the growth of software development and IT outsourcing companies in the country, and has launched several initiatives aimed at increasing digital literacy and promoting e-commerce.

LPTIC is also committed to promoting corporate social responsibility in Libya. It has supported a range of initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people in the country, including providing support to healthcare facilities, sponsoring cultural events, and investing in renewable energy projects.

Despite the challenges facing the company, LPTIC remains an important player in the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Libya. Its investments and initiatives have helped to improve connectivity and expand access to technology in the country, and it continues to work towards its goal of promoting economic development and improving the lives of people in Libya.

 

General Posts and Telecommunications Company (GPTC) 

The General Posts and Telecommunications Company (GPTC) is a state-owned telecommunications company in Libya. It was established in 1969 and is responsible for the provision of postal and telecommunications services in the country.

The structure of GPTC is hierarchical, with a board of directors at the top, responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction and overseeing its operations. Below the board, there are several departments responsible for different areas of the business, such as finance, marketing, and operations.

GPTC offers a range of telecommunications services, including fixed-line and mobile telephony, internet services, and international telecommunications services. It has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure and improving the quality and reliability of its services.

In addition to its commercial activities, GPTC is also committed to supporting social and economic development in Libya. The company has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy and providing training and employment opportunities for young people in the country.

GPTC has a long history in Libya and has played an important role in the development of the country’s telecommunications sector. In the early years following its establishment, the company focused on the provision of postal services and the development of a basic telecommunications infrastructure.

In the 1990s, GPTC began to modernize and expand its network, introducing new technologies and services to meet the growing demand for telecommunications services in Libya. The company launched its first mobile phone service, Libyana, in 2004, and has since expanded its mobile network to cover most parts of the country.

GPTC has also invested in the development of its fixed-line network, expanding its coverage and improving the quality and reliability of its services. In recent years, the company has focused on the deployment of fibre optic technology, which has enabled it to offer faster and more reliable internet services to its customers.

Despite its achievements, GPTC has faced several challenges in recent years, including political instability, security concerns, and a lack of investment in its infrastructure. These challenges have impacted the company’s ability to expand and modernize its network, and have contributed to a decline in the quality of its services.

In response, the Libyan government has taken steps to restructure and modernize the telecommunications sector, including the establishment of new regulatory frameworks and the licensing of private companies to provide telecommunications services. These efforts are aimed at improving the quality and availability of telecommunications services in Libya, and promoting the development of a modern, competitive telecommunications sector.

 

LIBYA TELECOM AND TECHNOLOGY (LTT)Libya Telecom and Technology (LTT) is a Libyan state-owned company that provides telecommunications services to both individuals and businesses in Libya.

The company was established in 1997 and is headquartered in Tripoli, Libya. It offers a wide range of telecommunications services, including fixed-line and mobile phone services, internet access, and data communication services.

LTT is governed by a Board of Directors that is responsible for overseeing the company’s management and strategic direction. The Board is appointed by the Libyan government, which is the sole shareholder of the company.

In recent years, LTT has invested heavily in modernizing and expanding its network infrastructure to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet and other advanced telecommunications services in Libya. The company has also been actively seeking partnerships and collaborations with international telecommunications companies to help improve its service offerings and expand its reach.

Libya Telecom and Technology (LTT) is one of the largest and most prominent companies in the Libyan telecommunications sector. As a state-owned company, LTT is a key player in the country’s economy and is tasked with providing affordable and reliable telecommunications services to the population.

LTT’s service offerings include fixed-line and mobile phone services, as well as internet access and data communication services. The company operates a modern and extensive network infrastructure that covers most of the country, with a particular focus on major urban areas and population centres.

In recent years, LTT has been actively investing in the expansion and modernization of its network infrastructure to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet and other advanced telecommunications services in Libya. This includes the deployment of new technologies and equipment, such as fibre-optic cables and advanced wireless networks, as well as the establishment of new partnerships and collaborations with international telecommunications companies.

Despite the challenges posed by political instability and economic uncertainty in Libya, LTT continues to play a critical role in the country’s telecommunications sector, providing essential services to millions of customers and helping to drive economic growth and development.

 

LIBYANA

Libyana Telecommunications Company is a mobile phone operator in Libya. It was established in 2004 and is a subsidiary of the Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC), which is owned by the Libyan government.

The company began operations in 2004, with a GSM network that covered 25% of the population. In 2006, it launched its 3G network, which provided faster data speeds and improved coverage. By 2010, the company’s network covered more than 97% of the population, making it the largest mobile phone operator in the country.

During the Libyan civil war in 2011, the company’s infrastructure was damaged, and its network was disrupted. After the conflict, the company began the process of rebuilding its network and expanding its coverage.

Today the company provides mobile phone services to millions of customers in Libya. Its network covers more than 90% of the population, and it offers a range of services, including voice calls, SMS, MMS, and data services.

The company has a hierarchical management structure, with a board of directors at the top. The CEO is responsible for the day-to-day management of the company, and is supported by a team of senior executives who oversee different areas of the business, such as finance, marketing, and operations.

Libyana has partnerships with several international telecommunications companies, including ZTE, Huawei, Ericsson, and Nokia, which provide the company with the latest technology and equipment to improve its network and services.

Libyana is the leading mobile network operator in Libya, with a market share of around 50%. The company offers a range of mobile services, including voice calls, SMS, MMS, and mobile data. It also provides value-added services, such as international roaming, mobile payments, and content services.

The company has invested heavily in its network infrastructure, with a focus on expanding coverage and improving the quality of service. It has also deployed the latest technology to offer high-speed mobile broadband services to its customers.

In addition to its consumer business, Libyana Telecommunications Company also provides services to businesses and government agencies in Libya. It offers a range of enterprise solutions, including data connectivity, voice services, and managed services.

The company operates in a challenging environment, with political instability and security concerns impacting its operations. In recent years, the company has faced challenges related to the ongoing conflict in Libya, which has disrupted its operations and led to a decline in revenue.

Despite these challenges, Libyana Telecommunications Company remains committed to providing high-quality mobile services to its customers in Libya. The company has a strong brand reputation in the country and has been recognized for its contributions to the development of the telecommunications sector in Libya.

 

ALMADAR ALJADID

Almadar Aljadid is a Libyan telecommunications company that was established in 2004, as a joint venture between the Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC) and the Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat). The company was created with the goal of providing high-quality mobile telecommunications services to customers in Libya.

Since its establishment, Almadar has become one of the leading mobile operators in Libya, with a market share of approximately 30%. The company has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure and improving the quality of its services, in order to meet the growing demand for mobile telecommunications services in the country.

Almadar’s structure is hierarchical, with a board of directors at the top, responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction and overseeing its operations. Below the board, there are several departments responsible for different areas of the business, such as finance, marketing, and operations.

The company offers a range of mobile telecommunications services, including voice, messaging, and data services, as well as value-added services such as mobile banking and mobile content. It has also invested in expanding its 4G LTE network to improve the speed and quality of its data services.

In addition to its commercial activities, Almadar is also committed to supporting social and economic development in Libya. The company has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy and providing training and employment opportunities for young people in the country.

To support its growth and expansion, Almadar has also pursued partnerships and collaborations with other companies and organizations. In 2013, for example, the company partnered with Huawei to launch the first commercial 4G LTE network in Libya, which helped to improve the speed and quality of its mobile data services.

In recent years, Almadar has also invested in improving its customer service and support, with the launch of several initiatives aimed at providing better support and assistance to its customers. The company has established customer service canters and has implemented online and mobile channels for customer support and engagement.

Overall, despite the challenges facing the telecommunications sector in Libya, Almadar has continued to grow and expand, and has played an important role in providing high-quality mobile telecommunications services to customers in the country. With its focus on innovation, investment in infrastructure, and commitment to social and economic development, the company is well-positioned to continue its growth and make a positive contribution to the telecommunications sector in Libya.

 

HATIF LIBYA

Hatif Libya is a Libyan telecommunications company that was established in 2010 as a joint venture between the Libyan Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Company (LPTIC) and ZTE Corporation, a Chinese telecommunications equipment and systems company.

The company was created with the aim of providing high-quality fixed-line telecommunications services to customers in Libya, including voice and internet services. Since its establishment, Hatif Libya has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure and improving the quality and reliability of its services.

Hatif Libya’s structure is hierarchical, with a board of directors at the top, responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction and overseeing its operations. Below the board, there are several departments responsible for different areas of the business, such as finance, marketing, and operations.

The company offers a range of fixed-line telecommunications services, including voice and internet services, as well as value-added services such as virtual private networks (VPNs) and cloud-based services. It has also invested in expanding its fibre optic network to improve the speed and quality of its internet services.

In addition to its commercial activities, Hatif Libya is also committed to supporting social and economic development in Libya. The company has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy and providing training and employment opportunities for young people in the country.

Overall, Hatif Libya is a key player in the fixed-line telecommunications sector in Libya, with a strong focus on expanding and improving its services, and contributing to the country’s social and economic development.

  

 

THE FUTURE

In November 2022 Prime Minister Abdul-Hamed Dbeibah underlined the importance of the private sector’s role in developing the country’s information technology sector.

Dbeibah made the remarks as he inaugurated the Libya International Telecommunications and Information Technology Exhibition in the Libyan capital Tripoli.

More than 200 companies in the Libyan communications industry participated in the four-day event, which aims to promote high-end technical exchanges in the Libyan communications industry and play a key role in Libya’s future network development, according to its organizer.

Major global communications equipment and solution providers, including China’s ZTE and Huawei, also attended the event.