The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has warned against using signal boosters to access Indian mobile services within Nepal, as it violates local telecom laws. The NTA emphasized legal actions will be taken against those using these devices to amplify foreign signals, specifically in border areas.
Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung called for coordinated efforts under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to achieve the Digital Nepal Framework’s goals. He emphasized expanding access to broadband, improving GIOMS, controlling advertisement leakage, and addressing the economic burden of local-level tax collection for mobile tower installations.
Egypt’s “Shaping AI Horizon” forum focused on the National AI Strategy (2025-2030), aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and technology investment. Key pillars include AI infrastructure, talent development, and regulatory frameworks. ITIDA and 500 Global are collaborating to address AI skill shortages and promote innovation within Egypt’s AI ecosystem.
The Bangladesh government has proposed a 5-10% reduction in spectrum prices for the upcoming 700MHz auction to address concerns from foreign telecom investors. The discount is contingent on operators upgrading infrastructure, reducing consumer prices, and improving service quality. Further negotiations on pricing are expected.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority has warned citizens to avoid SMS and electronic messages that contain links to payment sites, as they may compromise banking card data and lead to financial theft. Payments should only be made through secure channels like commercial bank apps or the “eFawateercom” platform.
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has dismissed rumors of suspending the Starlink satellite broadband service. Director General Bandula Herath confirmed the service will launch in April once the necessary regulatory systems are in place, ensuring proper service delivery and national security regulations.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) is considering ISP mergers to streamline the growing number of internet providers and improve market competition. With 107 licensed ISPs, many of which are struggling, the NTA aims to enhance service quality, reduce unhealthy competition, and help companies better compete in the expanding digital market.
The NTRA has reminded Egyptian customers to pay a 37.5 percent customs duty on imported mobile devices by April 7, 2025. This includes various fees, and failure to comply will result in the suspension of devices from mobile networks. The new rules aim to combat mobile phone smuggling.
SpaceX’s Starlink rollout in Sri Lanka has been suspended due to national security concerns, with the government citing the lack of provisions for legal data interception. The suspension follows a previous TRCSL license and aims to ensure authorities can access communications data when necessary. Starlink hopes to launch in 2025.
Saudi Arabia participated in the 2025 Global Youth Summit in Cuba, led by the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST). The summit, focusing on amplifying youth voices in ICT, featured discussions on youth priorities, digital empowerment, and AI advancements. The Kingdom emphasized youth development in technology and innovation sectors.
