Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh’s telecom regulator is preparing a 700 MHz spectrum auction to expand 4G and 5G coverage, while operators push for the full 45 MHz sale at reduced rates to lower costs and boost rural connectivity.
For more than 27 years, Huawei has played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s technology transformation—from reducing telecom costs and expanding 3G/4G access to pioneering 5G, AI, and cloud solutions. Alongside investments in solar energy and talent development, Huawei remains committed to supporting the government’s vision for an intelligent, sustainable, and inclusive Bangladesh.
Grameenphone, Bangladesh’s largest telecom operator, controls nearly half of the market despite SMP regulations. Rivals Robi and Banglalink accuse it of anti-competitive practices and have filed complaints with the Competition Commission. Regulators continue to face pressure to enforce rules that curb dominance while keeping the sector competitive.
BTCL will introduce Bangladesh’s first triple-play and quad-play services, offering unlimited data, voice, and video, plus wireless connectivity. Partnering with OTT platforms, the initiative also includes affordable 5G smartphones on installment, aiming to boost digital inclusion and transform communication and entertainment nationwide.
Banglalink has become Bangladesh’s first telecom operator to secure the Global Top Employer 2025 Certification, recognizing its people-first approach, strong HR practices, and commitment to talent development. The achievement aligns with its EVP “Lead The Future” and positions it as a leading digital employer in the country.
Teletalk and BTCL owe over Tk 7,000 crore in unpaid dues, with the figure possibly exceeding Tk 10,000 crore. While private operators face strict enforcement, state-run firms avoid penalties, raising concerns of market distortion. Analysts urge restructuring, spectrum reallocation, or partial privatisation to restore fairness and efficiency.
Robi Axiata has won the BBR Corporate Award 2025 for its role in advancing Bangladesh’s telecom sector. The recognition underscores the company’s focus on innovation, nationwide digital expansion, and commitment to supporting the country’s digital transformation vision.
Bangladesh risks falling short of its trillion-dollar digital economy target due to one of the world’s highest spectrum and tax burdens, a GSMA report warns. High costs are slowing 5G rollout and internet speeds, while reforms in spectrum pricing and taxation could unlock up to $45 billion in economic growth by 2035.
Bangladesh has approved its Telecom Networking Licence Policy 2025, aiming to streamline licensing, enhance competition, and improve nationwide service quality. While Grameenphone and Banglalink welcomed reforms, Robi Axiata voiced disappointment over unaddressed industry inputs. Analysts say the policy’s success hinges on clear implementation guidelines and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
Bangladesh has revised its telecom Quality of Service framework, raising 4G minimum download speeds to 10 Mbps, enforcing strict rules on call quality, and extending obligations to ISPs and NTTN operators. The framework, effective September 1, mandates monthly reporting and tighter customer service standards to enhance accountability and coverage nationwide.