The Telecom Operators Association has requested tax exemptions and reforms in the upcoming budget for fiscal year 2025-26. Key demands include withholding tax exemptions, adjustments to income tax rates, and tax relief for telecom employees to ensure sustainable growth and improve the business environment in the telecom sector.
Bangladesh Submarine Cables PLC has announced a 10% reduction in internet service prices. The government is working to make internet more affordable through wholesale price cuts and new initiatives. Mobile companies will also reduce transmission costs, and Bangladesh will connect to a third submarine cable by mid-2026.
Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim outlines the company’s strategic shift from a telecom provider to a dynamic digital services company. The company is expanding into healthcare, focusing on AI-powered solutions to bridge gaps in Pakistan’s healthcare system, while continuing growth in financial services, entertainment, and cloud technologies.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) is considering closing the Free WiFi Mobility service provided by ISPs like WorldLink, following complaints from telecom companies that it has impacted their revenues. If implemented, this decision could inconvenience users who rely on free WiFi hotspots for internet access in public places.
The Nepal government is considering reducing the telecom license renewal fee of Rs 20 billion to support the struggling industry. Telecom leaders, including Ncell’s CEO and NTA officials, urge policy revisions to attract investment, lower taxes, and address challenges like high renewal fees and foreign ownership regulations.
Zarrar Hasham Khan has been appointed as the new chairman of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), effective March 10, 2025, replacing Azfar Manzoor. Khan brings over two decades of experience in the telecom sector, including leadership roles at Saudi Telecom Company, and holds degrees from top universities.
Bangladesh’s mobile subscriber count dropped by 1.2 million in December 2024, continuing a six-month decline. The downturn was attributed to a rise in SIM taxation and economic challenges, with mobile operators losing millions of customers. A gender gap in mobile ownership also persists, with men far outpacing women in access.
Zong 4G hosted a delegation from NIPA as part of the Senior Management Course, offering insights into the company’s technological advancements and contributions to Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. Discussions covered network expansion, AI, and data governance. The visit highlighted Zong’s commitment to Pakistan’s digital transformation and fostering sector collaboration.
Pakistan’s government plans to launch 5G services by mid-2025, aiming to resolve internet speed issues. Despite financial concerns highlighted in the PTA’s 2024 report, the government remains committed to overcoming challenges in transitioning to 5G, with an emphasis on improving connectivity and telecom industry growth.
Pakistan’s mobile phone imports declined by 7.46% in the first half of FY 2024-25, totaling $733.425 million. While monthly imports showed a slight increase, the year-on-year growth remained negative. Locally manufactured handsets reached 28.43 million, with smartphones accounting for 65% of the market.
