Approximately 42% of mobile phone users in Bangladesh remain without internet access, according to data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), highlighting a persistent digital divide despite widespread mobile penetration.
The figures indicate that while mobile connectivity has reached a large portion of the population, a significant share of users are not yet participating in the digital ecosystem. Factors such as affordability, digital literacy, device limitations, and network quality continue to impact internet adoption.
The gap underscores the challenge of converting access into meaningful usage, particularly in rural and lower-income segments. While telecom operators have expanded coverage and data services, barriers to entry remain for millions of users who rely primarily on basic mobile functionality.
Authorities and industry stakeholders are increasingly focusing on initiatives to improve digital inclusion, including affordable data plans, device financing, and awareness programmes aimed at increasing digital literacy.
Bridging this gap is critical to unlocking the full potential of Bangladesh’s digital economy, enabling access to online services such as education, healthcare, and financial platforms.
Editor’s Note:
Bangladesh’s offline user base highlights a critical gap between connectivity and adoption. Closing this divide will require coordinated efforts across affordability, literacy, and network quality to drive meaningful digital participation.
