The Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association has demanded the reversal of the recent tax hike on telecommunications and internet services. The new taxes, including an increase in VAT and supplementary duty on mobile phones and broadband internet, are expected to raise costs for consumers, prompting public protest.
The UAE’s technology sector is set for record growth in 2025, driven by advancements in digital innovation and emerging technologies. With strong government support and investments in digital infrastructure, the country is becoming a global hub for tech companies. Growth is expected to continue through 2029, with a steady market expansion.
Starlink usage in Iran has surpassed 100,000 users, with significant growth driven by demand for unrestricted internet access amid government censorship. Despite its high costs, Starlink has become essential for bypassing internet restrictions, especially after the 2022 protests. The service highlights the ongoing struggle for digital freedom in Iran.
iQ Networks has signed Iraq’s first dark fibre IRU agreement with Gulf Bridge International, marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecom infrastructure. The deal coincides with the Silk Route Transit network surpassing 1 Tbps in capacity, positioning Iraq as a crucial telecom hub linking Europe and Asia.
Nepal Telecom has launched 4G service in Karmarong, Mugu district, bringing high-speed data and VoLTE for the first time to this remote region. The service spans multiple areas and trekking routes, benefiting local businesses and enhancing digital inclusion in the area. This marks a significant upgrade in telecommunications.
The interim government in Bangladesh plans to raise the supplementary duty on mobile phone services from 20% to 23%. This increase will raise taxes on recharges, leaving users with less usable balance. The move has sparked concerns about its impact on internet usage and the country’s ICT progress.
Algerie Télécom is optimizing its BaridiMob platform to enhance user experience following recent disruptions. The company has apologized for transaction delays and assured users that updates are aimed at improving service efficiency. A significant rise in user adoption underscores the need for these improvements to meet growing demand.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has signed an agreement with Batelco to offer exclusive benefits to housing beneficiaries in 2025. The partnership aims to enhance services such as special rates for mobile, broadband, and devices, while providing dedicated support for housing projects.
A new international data corridor linking Europe and the Gulf via Iraq has been launched by ITPC and CITRA, in collaboration with Zajil Telecom. The land-based route offers a faster, more reliable alternative to maritime services, providing quicker and secure data transmission from Kuwait to Europe.
Pakistan has joined the 2Africa Cable Project, which spans 45,000 km of undersea cables connecting 46 stations across 33 countries. The telecom sector saw significant growth, with a 17% revenue increase, while Pakistan’s global digital rankings improved. The country also advanced in mobile connectivity and cybersecurity efforts.
