Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan will auction 597.2 MHz of sub-6 GHz spectrum across six bands in 2026, divided into 62 lots. With new bands opening for the first time and strict caps on spectrum ownership, PTA aims to ensure fair competition while giving operators the capacity to expand 4G and deploy 5G nationwide.
Pakistan’s telecom operator Zong has asked the government to apply industrial electricity tariffs and grant fiscal parity for its cloud and data centre operations, warning that high power costs and unequal incentives are weakening local competitiveness and discouraging global cloud investment.
Bangladesh rewrote its telecom policy in 2025, introducing new licensing rules, surveillance reforms, and satellite internet entry. While the reset addressed long-standing issues, concerns remain over foreign ownership caps, regulatory independence, and competitive balance.
Government forms a high-level committee to review and analyze the draft 2025 telecom policy, focusing on comprehensive impact assessment and enforcement feasibility.
The government has formed a committee led by Prof. Wahiduddin Mahmud to review the draft Telecommunications Network and Licensing Policy 2025, focusing on its economic, technical, and implementation dimensions amid concerns from local telecom firms.
Telecom stakeholders oppose the proposed phase-out of ICX operators in Bangladesh, citing lack of data support and highlighting the efficiency of the current consolidated ICX system. They call for pilot studies and evidence-based approaches before major network restructuring.
Bangladesh plans to overhaul its ICT and telecom policies by June to eliminate barriers to digital growth. Key reforms include the Cyber Security Ordinance, telecom licensing changes, and full digital payment interoperability. These measures aim to strengthen citizen services, digital payments, and empower the youth population through technology.
Nepal Telecom (NTC) has set the minimum recharge amount at Rs 50, meaning recharges below this amount will no longer be allowed. This change, also adopted by Ncell, follows a reported loss of Rs 1 million in recharge cards by NTC. The policy aims to streamline recharge processes.
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission has implemented a policy requiring all mobile phones to be registered by January 28, 2024, to improve security, prevent fraud, and stop illegal imports. Unregistered devices will be blocked from local networks, with exceptions for tourists and phones brought for personal use.
Telecom operators in Pakistan have set out key conditions for 5G rollout, including local currency payments, reduced taxes, and adequate spectrum in the 2600 MHz band. They are also pushing for a phased “4G for all” approach and a formal industry recognition to support sustainable growth and investment in the telecom sector.