BDTax has launched a new mobile app for Android and iOS to facilitate easier tax filing in Bangladesh. The app features guided steps, secure document management, and AI-powered tools to streamline the process, ensuring compliance and enhancing user experience with professional support.
Teletalk has been directed to improve its service quality and prepare for future technologies like 5G. The operator is also considering launching a “GEN Z package” targeting youth, as part of its efforts to enhance customer services and meet public expectations.
Grameenphone and Robi Axiata have secured an additional 20 MHz of spectrum each in Bangladesh’s 2.6 GHz band after two years of negotiations with the BTRC. The 15-year contracts, priced at BDT11.6 billion (US$98.6 million), will help improve service quality. The BTRC agreed to payment in local currency to address exchange rate concerns.
Banglalink achieved a decade-high revenue growth of 14.4% in 2023, driven by a 25% increase in data revenue. The company’s expansion strategy, including a 24.5% growth in its 4G user base and the success of digital services like the MyBL Super App, fueled this significant performance boost.
Telenor Asia, parent of Grameenphone, has urged the Bangladesh government to fully restore mobile internet services. Major telecom operators reported a shutdown of 3G and 4G networks ordered by local authorities, leaving only 2G services available. Previous internet blackouts and social media restrictions have raised concerns about safety and connectivity.
Bangladesh restored mobile internet services after a 12-day outage caused by violent protests. However, social media platforms remain blocked pending talks with government officials. State minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak cited “planned sabotage” for the blackout, while digital rights groups urge an independent enquiry into the incident’s true cause.
Grameenphone, Bangladesh’s largest mobile operator, reported a Tk 1,338 crore profit for Q1 2024, a 72% increase year-on-year. The growth was driven by reduced finance costs, foreign exchange gains, and lower income tax expenses, with revenue rising by 5% to Tk 3,734 crore.
BMCCI, led by President Shabbir A Khan, met with Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak to discuss technological collaboration and investment with Malaysia. They plan to establish a “Bangladesh IT Connect Portal-Malaysia” to promote investment and strengthen ties. BMCCI will play a key role in this initiative.
Bangladesh’s mobile phone market shipped 4 million units in 1Q24, with a 1.7% YoY growth. Smartphones saw an 11.6% increase, rebounding from a decline due to heavy taxation. Feature phones declined by 5.4%. Key segments showed mixed trends, while 5G growth remains slow. Offline channels dominate, but online sales are rising.
State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak announced the launch of 5G services at Terminal 3 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in October, following the prime minister’s directive to prioritize airports, seaports, business districts, and industrial zones. The announcement was made during a BTRC meeting in Dhaka.
