LEILA SERHAN

We have the talent to make Lebanon a hub for innovation. There are costs on big companies with 200-250 developers that are based outside of Beirut and finding it increasingly difficult to do business here because of the infrastructure. It is not cost effective compared to neighboring countries, where high-speed internet is available at a low cost. As a company we participate in lobbying groups that call for the broadband manifesto. We are members of a number of associations that call for faster internet.

BERNARD NAJM

SMEs will experience huge benefits from the introduction of 3G telecom services in Lebanon. These enterprises rely much on communication facilities, and 3G technology will make their functions much easier and more efficient. If we take the banking sector as an example, clients would be doing their banking transactions while on the move, and with some additional awareness, end-users will use their time more efficiently on a daily basis. E-shopping will boom and advertising companies will also see great benefits. On the other hand, the possibility to implement the e-government plan for Lebanon that was promoted five to six years back and supported by the World Bank can easily become a reality. IT companies will also be able to expand their domestic businesses. It’s true that it requires a little time for this to occur, yet 3G telecom services and applications are mandatory prerequisites.

TAREK SAADI