2. Arabic Digital Content Improving the regulations applicable to digital content providers The development and diffusion of Arabic digital content is of primordial importance for Egypt. Indeed, this is a principal gateway to opening up the internet to Arabic-speaking communities around the world, while preserving and promoting the Arab heritage for the coming generations. The Arabic content industry encompasses hardcopy and soft products in different fields from tourism, education, government to media, environment, business, culture…etc.; an integrated industrial process that is more of an information base and investment establishment. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology adopts a set of policies in this regard, including: Promoting the use of open source technology, securing interoperability and open standards to address the technological issues related to the creation, publishing, usage and preservation of digital content a-Creating a favorable environment for the development of Arabic digital content Availing the necessary infrastructure through the National Broadband Initiative “e- Misr” Establishing an effective system of cooperation between the relevant stakeholders to ensure coordination and continuity Stimulating the market to create, publish and preserve digital content Supporting research, development and innovation related to the creation, dissemination and preservation of digital content; related digital networks, software and hardware; and open standards and interoperability Implementing initiatives aimed at bridging the skills gap in the field of digital content through training, education and human resources development Promoting the creation and dissemination of knowledge by facilitating access to information, data, research and publications, and stimulating investments in this field Safeguarding the freedom of expression and freedom of access to information and ideas Adopting the necessary legislation Promoting the effective use of and access to open government data Promoting investments in network infrastructure, content, software and applications 6 Updating and improving the applications used for the provision and use of digital content to foster access and maximize usage Promoting universal access to digital content with a view to achieving the full benefits of an Internet economy Building confidence in the creation and use of digital content through effective consumers’ protection measures targeting identity fraud and theft, infringement on privacy, child online safety, and strengthening information and network security Cooperation with other Arab states with a view to achieving synergies and avoiding duplication Cooperation with relevant regionalorganizations Development of value-added digital content for Egyptian and Arab consumers Periodical monitoring of progress and assessment of obstacles b- Creating a strong Arabic digital content industry Enhancing the business environment and regulatory framework Promoting the development of innovative business models and best practices in the digital environment Clarifying taxation issues related to digital content Setting policies for improving digital content Providing incentives to create, publish and protect digital content, through open innovation strategies, cooperation between universities and businesses and IPRs Facilitating e-commerce through e-payments, e-signature and authentication Supporting non-discriminatory policies to promote competition 7