Bangladesh plans to open the entire 6 GHz spectrum for unlicensed use under a trade deal with the United States, enabling wider Wi-Fi access for devices like smartphones, routers, and IoT systems. While this could boost connectivity and support more devices, it raises serious concerns for the country’s telecom ecosystem.
Experts warn that freeing the upper 6 GHz band—typically reserved for licensed mobile services like 5G—could reduce future government revenue from spectrum auctions and limit capacity for mobile network expansion. It may also put Bangladesh out of sync with Asia-Pacific countries that are reserving this band for telecom use, increasing risks of cross-border interference.
Regulators and industry leaders stress that while expanding Wi-Fi has benefits, maintaining balance is critical to protect long-term infrastructure growth, spectrum strategy, and national revenue.
