Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Economics and Political Sciences - Department of Economics

This thesis explores the resulting impact of applying mobile number portability (MNP) technology in reducing customer lock-in and fostering competition within mobile telecommunication service sector in Egypt. Applying MNP was based on the premise that the main profits{u2019} source of mobile network operators (MNOs) is embedded in repeat purchasing actions, thus they usually invest in locking-in customers for as long as possible. Customer lock-in is created through producing extremely high costs for customers that arise whenever there is a switching intention to rivals{u2019} products. These costs will ensure that switching is inconceivable. Large body of theoretical literature examined possible effect of switching costs on the mobile telecommunication market. Their main effect primarily enhances customer lock-in that easily grants a monopoly power to MNOs, reduces competition level, and increases monopoly profits. However, customer lock-in also reduces product innovation

Issued also as CD