“We are pleased of what has been achieved since the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector in 2002. Today we have a highly developed and balanced regulatory environment that ensures continuous development of competition within the Kingdom’s telecommunications sector,” TRA’s Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Al Amer, said.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) Bahrain hosted its annual review meeting with representatives of licensed telecommunications operators. The review looked at the highlights of 2011 and discussed TRA’s strategic work plan for the coming 12 months to develop further competition, protect the interests of consumers and address the technological changes.
“TRA should collectively work with all key stakeholders to support continued growth and prosperity of the sector. Last year, the telecommunications sector realised important objectives which include the provisioning of new and quality telecommunications services to consumers and businesses that support the development of the social and commercial fabrics of the Kingdom. Once again TRA has also been recognised as a leading regulator in the region for its approach in encouraging competition and sustainability in the telecommunications sector,” Dr. Al Amer, added.
“This annual meeting is an important opportunity to exchange information and debate the developments in the sector. The telecommunications sector has faced major changes since liberalisation, and more choices are available to consumers for the best international quality and prices,” TRA’s General Director, Mohamed Bubashait, said.
“The telecommunications sector contributes 4% of GDP of the Kingdom and directly provides more than 2600 jobs. Bahrain has realised the objectives of liberalising and opening up the telecommunications sector,” Bubashait, said.
“Since its inception, TRA has implemented most of its mandates under the Telecommunications Law, and has overseen the development of competition in the market in a fair and transparent manner. TRA has removed all barriers to entry and provided profitable opportunities for existing and new investors to do business in the telecommunications market.
“TRA is working to provide more flexibility to the regulatory framework, aiming to meet the technological changes and challenges and to provide ultra-high speed broadband services in Bahrain. We certainly look forward to continue fulfilling the aspirations of industry stakeholders in the coming year, and are fully aware of the importance of ensuring that the telecommunications industry successfully supports the growth of all other industries in Bahrain,” Bubshait added.
In TRA’s presentation to the industry, TRA’s management team highlighted how the telecommunications sector has developed over the past 12 months, what has been achieved and what is planned for the coming year. The team also highlighted key projects and priorities to support further competition and promote the interests of consumers.
It is worth mentioning that TRA was recognized in December 2011 by the South Asia Middle East and North Africa (SAMENA) Telecommunications Council as the Most Progressive Regulator of the Year 2011.