Communications infrastructure, especially cellular frequencies, are a major issue for the Palestinians, so the Palestinian-American Al-Shabaka think tank took a look at the issue in its November report “ICT: The Shackled Engine of Palestine’s Development.” With “ICT,” the Washington-based think tank was referring to information and communications technology.

Al-Shabaka estimates that “Palestinian operators lose $80 to $100 million annually as a result of the lack of 3G services.”

The report’s basic assumption is that the information and communications technology industry is the “pillar of all other sectors” and “enables and enhances different dimensions of social and economic development. In addition, there is a strong positive correlation between direct investments in ICT and job creation.” It says this sector accounts for 5.6% of Palestinian GDP.

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