Bangladesh ranks sixth in internet usage among eight South Asian countries, according to a new report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Despite improvements in digital access, the country continues to trail behind regional peers due to high costs, infrastructure gaps, and low digital literacy.
As of 2023, 44 out of every 100 people in Bangladesh were internet users, compared with 55 in India. Afghanistan ranks the lowest in South Asia with just 17 users per 100, while Bhutan leads the region with 88 users per 100, followed by the Maldives at 84. Pakistan remains just behind Bangladesh, with 27 users per 100 people.
The ADB report highlights that Bangladesh ranks fourth in mobile phone subscriptions, with 114 subscribers per 100 people. This reflects multiple SIM ownership, as the total number of active subscriptions exceeds the national population. India tops in absolute numbers with 1.16 billion mobile users, followed by Bangladesh with 196.1 million, and Pakistan with 188.4 million. Sri Lanka leads in density, with 142 subscribers per 100 people.
In broadband usage, Bangladesh ranks second in South Asia after India, with 13.5 million users compared to India’s 39.5 million. On 4G coverage, Bangladesh stands out, ranking second in the region with 98.9% population coverage, slightly behind the Maldives (100%) and ahead of India (98.8%).
While Bangladesh still struggles to expand internet penetration, the report suggests that its widespread 4G availability and strong mobile adoption provide a solid foundation for future digital growth, provided affordability and digital literacy challenges are addressed.
