The impact of information and communication technology on economic growth in North African Countries (Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt) during the period 2000–2021

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between Information and Communication Technology (ICT) indicators and economic growth in four North African countries—Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt—over the period 2000 to 2021, based on panel data obtained from the World Bank database. Appropriate econometric models were employed (Pooled OLS, Fixed Effects, and Random Effects), with the most suitable model determined using the Breusch-Pagan and Hausman tests. The findings indicate that the Random Effects Model is the most appropriate. Results show that both the number of mobile cellular subscriptions (MCS) and the ratio of communications and computers to service imports (CC) exert a positive and statistically significant influence on economic growth. By contrast, the percentage of internet users (IUI) has a negative and significant effect, while the percentage of fixed broadband subscriptions (FBS) was found to be statistically insignificant. The study concludes with several recommendations, most notably the adoption of integrated policies that emphasize the development of digital infrastructure and the strengthening of digital competencies, in order to maximize the economic impact of information and communication technologies.