Fourth telecom company in Jordan? TRC Chief answers

Jordan has been elected to lead the Euro-Mediterranean Regulators Group (EMERG) for 2025–2026, according to Basem Sarhan, Chairman of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC).

The unanimous vote highlights Jordan's advancements in telecommunications and its ability to manage international organizations in the sector, Sarhan said. He expressed optimism about securing more prominent roles for Jordan in global ICT organizations.

Mobile Number Portability program

Speaking to Roya, Sarhan emphasized the importance of the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) program, calling it a key step in Jordan's digital transformation. The initiative allows citizens to retain their mobile numbers while switching between service providers, facilitating the integration of digital files under a stable phone number.

Sarhan added that the program aims to enhance competition by encouraging providers to focus on service quality, coverage, and pricing, rather than locking customers in based on their phone numbers.

Potential fees for number transfers

On the topic of fees for transferring numbers, Sarhan said discussions are ongoing, with a team exploring global best practices. The TRC is collaborating with telecom providers to finalize details, including whether transfer fees will apply. Sarhan emphasized that the process must balance the financial rights of the provider the customer is leaving with the technical requirements of the transfer.

Possible fourth telecom operator

Regarding the entry of a fourth telecom operator to Jordan, Sarhan clarified that the market is currently well-served by three providers capable of handling increased subscriber numbers and that there is “no need” for a fourth one.

However, should a new operator enter, it would need to conduct thorough market studies and demonstrate expertise and professionalism, he added.

Sarhan noted that any new entrant must be an established company with proven success in other markets, ensuring it can meet Jordan's investment and service demands.

Telecom sector growth

Sarhan revealed that active mobile subscriptions in Jordan reached 8.25 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, up from 7.9 million a year earlier. Subscriptions for broadband services, including fiber optics, stood at approximately 580,000, with the actual number of beneficiaries exceeding the subscription count due to shared usage.

Complaints

Sarhan highlighted that the TRC also oversees postal services, including national and international couriers such as Aramex, DHL, and FedEx, in addition to telecom services. Of the complaints received last year, 98 percent were resolved, with the remaining cases under review. He assured citizens that efforts are ongoing to close all open complaints efficiently.