[🇧🇩] ICT Industry in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Internet price to drop by 20% at ISP and IIG levels from July

Internet prices at the ISP (Internet Service Provider) and IIG (International Internet Gateway) levels will be reduced by 20% from July this year, said Chief Adviser's Special Assistant for Post, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb. Faiz Taiyeb came up with the announc

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Internet price to drop by 20% at ISP and IIG levels from July
Published :
May 15, 2025 19:49
Updated :
May 15, 2025 19:51

Internet prices at the ISP (Internet Service Provider) and IIG (International Internet Gateway) levels will be reduced by 20% from July this year, said Chief Adviser's Special Assistant for Post, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb.

Faiz Taiyeb came up with the announcement at a press conference held at the BTRC building in Agargaon on Thursday, marking the celebration of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, according to UNB.

The internet prices at the ISP and IIG levels will be reduced by 20% from July 1, he said. The prices at the consumer level will also be reduced subsequently, he added.

Taiyeb also urged the mobile operators to align with this initiative. "Our goal is to provide quality internet services at affordable prices to citizens."

Shish Haider Chowdhury, secretary to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Md Zahurul Islam, Acting Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division and Major General (retd) Md Emdad-Ul-Bari, Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication and Regulatory Commission (BTRC) were also present at the press conference.​

 

[Saif]

Govt sincere to develop telecommunication, IT sectors: Prof Yunus

He urged all to work united to ensure world-class telecommunication and IT service for the people.

en.prothomalo.com

Govt sincere to develop telecommunication, IT sectors: Prof Yunus
BSS Dhaka
Published: 16 May 2025, 19: 17

Interim government’s chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus File photo

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has said the interim government is sincere in developing country's telecommunication and information technology (IT) sectors and it has ensured transparency and accountability in all the activities of these sectors.

The chief adviser made the comments in his message given on the eve of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, which is to be celebrated in the country tomorrow with the theme 'Gender Equality in Digital Transformation', an official release said.

"I am delighted to learn that World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is going to be celebrated on May 17 in Bangladesh like elsewhere in the world," he added.

The chief adviser said "Equal participation of men and women in all the sectors of digital transformation and utilization of telecommunication service and IT, is a prerequisite for building a discrimination-free and modern society."

The Chief Adviser added that the interim government is committed to ensure equal opportunities and rights for men and women in all the segments of digital transformation by upholding the spirit of July mass uprising, adding, "that is why I think the theme 'Gender Equality in Digital Transformation' was significant".

Different information technology services are being launched through union information and service centers across the country, he said adding Prof Yunus said Initiatives have already been taken for 'She-STEM' training for female students and special freelancing training for women entrepreneurs.

Bangladesh is going to get connected to satellite-based high-speed internet network, which is an important milestone in terms of ensuring continuous internet service across the country including the remote and inaccessible areas," he added.

He urged all to work united to ensure world-class telecommunication and IT service for the people.​

 

[Saif]

Internet: Can local ISPs survive the coming storm?

The internet revolution in Bangladesh did not begin with global tech giants or mobile operators. It began with local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who, through personal grit and grassroots innovation, laid fibre optic cables across alleys, towns, and remote areas. In the early 2000s, young entr

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Internet: Can local ISPs survive the coming storm?
The digital lifeline at risk

MOHAMMED AMINUL HAKIM
Published :
May 19, 2025 10:10
Updated :
May 19, 2025 10:10

The internet revolution in Bangladesh did not begin with global tech giants or mobile operators. It began with local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who, through personal grit and grassroots innovation, laid fibre optic cables across alleys, towns, and remote areas. In the early 2000s, young entrepreneurs in cities like Dhaka, Narayanganj, Khulna, and Chattogram risked their savings to build networks that connected people to knowledge, jobs, and the wider world. These homegrown pioneers helped open the doors to freelancing, digital learning, and social media long before smartphones became ubiquitous. During the COVID-19 crisis, it was these ISPs who kept education and businesses running.

A New Era of Threats

Today, this sector faces an existential threat. A draft BTRC policy proposes allowing mobile network operators to offer wired broadband using both radio and fibre technologies-first to enterprises, and potentially to households next. On top of that, satellite providers like Starlink are knocking at the door, bringing global competition to local turf.

Yet the problems aren't just external. Frequent disconnections, poor customer service, unstructured cabling, and vague pricing have eroded public trust. But industry insiders argue the roots of this crisis lie deeper: excessive taxation, revenue-sharing burdens, layered VAT, the Social Obligation Fund (SOF), and the ban on infrastructure sharing have all stifled growth. Years of appeals to address these barriers have largely been ignored.

What Still Sets ISPs Apart

Despite mounting challenges, local ISPs still hold critical advantages. They are deeply embedded in their communities, quick to respond to service calls, and often more affordable than mobile alternatives. Unlimited broadband at 10 to 15 Mbps is still available for just 500 taka-a competitive offering by any measure. Their local networks are often more reliable, particularly during peak usage hours, and many enjoy strong trust built over years of personalised service. A Sector in Need of Transformation

But trust alone will not ensure survival. ISPs must urgently transform their business model. Continuing to offer low-cost, low-quality services is no longer viable. Investment is needed in core infrastructure, redundancy systems, and network monitoring. Customer service must be professionalised with proper helpdesks, live chat, and smart ticketing systems.

At the same time, ISPs must embrace in-house technology development-building their own CRM platforms, billing systems, and real-time alert tools. Associations must also step up advocacy to create a level playing field. Without clear policy support, ISPs will remain disadvantaged against global and mobile competitors.

There is also room to strengthen ties with communities. Through digital literacy campaigns, school partnerships, and internet awareness events, ISPs can reinforce trust and deepen their grassroots presence. Rural and semi-urban markets remain underexplored, with rising demand and less competition. Diversification is key-services like IP telephony, IPTV, cloud storage, and local CDN solutions can open new revenue streams and future-proof the business model.

What the Government Must Do

On April 19, 2025, the ISP Association pledged to offer 10 Mbps internet for 500 taka. This prompted IIG and NTTN providers to promise discounted bandwidth and infrastructure. Yet these promises remain unfulfilled. This highlights the urgent need for government intervention and regulatory enforcement.

The state must allow infrastructure sharing among ISPs, recognise internet service as an IT-enabled service, halt revenue sharing on internet access, and suspend the SOF collection. These measures are essential for fair competition and sectoral innovation.

A Crossroads for Connectivity

Bangladesh's ISP sector is at a turning point. This industry brought the internet into homes, empowered youth, supported remote learning, and kept services running in a pandemic. Yet now, these same providers face the risk of extinction.

The question is no longer about capability-the ISP sector has the experience, reach, and trust. The question is whether the government will choose to stand by these digital pioneers or let them be swept aside as mobile and foreign giants take over. For the sake of our digital future, the choice should be clear.

The writer is Chairperson of the Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum​

 

[Saif]

Starlink satellite internet gets going in BD

Unlimited data will be flowing on the information superhighway for tapping in knowledge economy as Bangladesh steps into the era of satellite internet with the commercial launch of US business-baron Elon Mask's much-vaunted Starlink. Terming historic Tuesday's event of the start of commercial oper

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Starlink satellite internet gets going in BD
Unlimited data to flow on information superhighway for tapping in knowledge economy
FE REPORT
Published :
May 21, 2025 00:54
Updated :
May 21, 2025 00:54

Unlimited data will be flowing on the information superhighway for tapping in knowledge economy as Bangladesh steps into the era of satellite internet with the commercial launch of US business-baron Elon Mask's much-vaunted Starlink.

Terming historic Tuesday's event of the start of commercial operations of Starlink, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, told Tuesday's launching ceremony that subscribers would get unlimited data from now on through satellite-based internet.

Addressing a press conference, organised by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser in the city, he said four other international companies have also applied for providing satellite internet services in Bangladesh.

He named Amazon Kuiper, Telesat, Satteloit, and OneWeb (UK) who have also shown interest in entering the Bangladeshi market.

"If they choose to do business here, we are prepared to offer them equal policy support," he affirms.

The government has taken measures to ensure national interest as well as the interests of the local ISPs before allowing Starlink to start its operation, he added.

Highlighting the advantages of Starlink services, he said there will be no discrimination in data speed in its service.

A subscriber at the Chief Adviser office and a subscriber in Khagrachhari hill district can get same speed from the Starlink, he said, explaining that usually the broad-band and mobile-internet providers cannot provide same data speed to all because of variation in coverage of optic fibre and mobile towers.

He was flanked by Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder at the briefing.

Mr Taiyeb said the operation of Starlink internet in Bangladesh will not hamper the country's data sovereignty as it will operate using local gateways to keep all data traffic within Bangladesh's jurisdiction.

He mentions that Starlink will pay the government $1.0 per device as revenue.

According to Mr Taiyeb, primarily Starlink had proposed a monthly subscription of Tk 7,000, but the government negotiated more affordable pricing.

Now, the company is offering two packages: Starlink Residential at Tk 6,000 per month and Residential Lite at Tk 4,200 per month. Both plans will require a one-time installation fee of Tk 47,000.

Subscribers will benefit from unlimited data and internet speeds of up to 300Mbps, with coverage extending across 20-30 meters and capable of penetrating 2-3 rooms in multi-story buildings.

He mentions that the country issued its first Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) licence within 90 days, which is a record in telecommunications licensing.

He also said Starlink's usage is fully compliant with legal frameworks as it can be used in residential setups via WiFi and is also suitable for ISP operations due to its integrated router system.

He said the government is working to create a financial package to make Starlink available to those who will provide citizen services. "We are planning to facilitate financing through microcredit authorities, financial organisations and banks."

Mr Taiyeb also notes that Starlink's entry would not disrupt ongoing broadband-infrastructure projects, including those in partnership with Chinese companies.

Responding to a question, he mentioned that the launch of Starlink will not impact Bangladesh despite the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China.

"Chinese technology is currently being used in establishing the country's 4G and 5G network infrastructure and backbone systems."

In addition, several projects are underway under Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL) and Teletalk with Chinese funding and engineers, he added.

"We want both Chinese and American companies to be able to operate here freely, by respecting our national interests," Taiyeb said. "If a Chinese company like GW wishes to enter the market, it will receive the same policy support."

The state-of-the-art service is expected to boost internet access in remote regions and empower entrepreneurs with high-speed, reliable connectivity.

He also points out that the Starlink service will help in creating 'internet lady' in rural areas because women can start internet business by subscribing this service through borrowing microcredit.

He also mentions that before starting their operations in Bangladesh the company of Starlink took necessary approval from the BIDA and the BTRC by paying due fees.

"Though there is a criticism that the Starlink services are costlier here than in other countries, in fact its tariff in Bangladesh is the cheapest in the region," he told the journalists.​

 

[Saif]

Broadband internet prices cut by Tk 100

The internet regulator has reduced broadband internet prices at the consumer level by up to 20 percent in a bid to make internet access more affordable across the country.

www.thedailystar.net

Broadband internet prices cut by Tk 100

The internet regulator has reduced broadband internet prices at the consumer level by up to 20 percent in a bid to make internet access more affordable across the country.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) issued the directive to broadband internet service providers on Tuesday.

Documents show that BTRC submitted the proposal to lower end-user internet tariffs to the telecom ministry for pre-approval on December 3 last year — a necessary step before the commission can approve major decisions.

However, it took around four and a half months to secure approval from both the telecom and finance ministries.

Under the new pricing, a 5 Mbps broadband connection will now cost Tk 400 per month, down from the previously fixed Tk 500 in 2021. The 10 Mbps package has been reduced to Tk 700 from Tk 800, and the 20 Mbps tariff is now Tk 1,100 instead of Tk 1,200.

BTRC Chairman Emdad ul Bari, who assumed the role in September last year, has repeatedly emphasised the need to bring down internet prices. Accordingly, the BTRC began a comprehensive analysis of the entire internet supply ecosystem.

"We have thoroughly analysed the entire internet market ecosystem and identified opportunities to reduce prices at various stages," Bari told The Daily Star in January.

In Bangladesh, internet connectivity begins with international submarine cables and International Terrestrial Cables (ITCs) supplying bandwidth to International Internet Gateways (IIGs) and is distributed to Internet Service Providers (ISPs) through Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Networks (NTTNs). ISPs deliver internet to consumers.

"So, we have also decreased the prices for IIG," said Bari, previously the director general of the BTRC's systems and services department.

The commission found that internet bandwidth consumption tripled to 6,036 Gbps between September 2021 and September 2024, increasing the transmission costs charged by NTTNs.

With bandwidth prices falling in the international market, the costs for IIGs and ISPs can also be reduced, ultimately enabling end users to access more affordable internet services.

The commission also found that ITC operators, who are also licensed as IIG operators, sell internet to their subsidiaries at significantly lower rates, creating uneven competition.

The BTRC has directed its Engineering and Operations Division to put an end to this malpractice and ensure unified prices.

Subsequently, the BTRC managed to lower the cost of bandwidth purchased by ISPs from IIGs, the wholesale providers of bandwidth, by 15 to 25 percent.

This has paved the way for lower internet prices at the consumer level.

Starting from July 1, 2025, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) will enforce a new internet tariff applicable to all licensed public and private Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for an initial period of five years.

Unless revised, the tariff will remain in effect with BTRC's approval. The commission may alter it at any time, considering market demand and consumer interest.

ISPs must also follow a compensation policy: if service is disrupted for 5, 10, or 15 consecutive days, customers will pay 50 percent, 25 percent, or 0 percent of the monthly bill, respectively. This aims to ensure accountability and protect consumer rights.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh enters the era of high-speed internet

The official launching of the much-anticipated commercial operation of Starlink, as reported, will evidently contribute to creating a competitive market for the internet service providers in Bangladesh. It is for the first time that the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Bangladesh enters the era of high-speed internet
Published :
May 24, 2025 00:27
Updated :
May 24, 2025 00:27

The official launching of the much-anticipated commercial operation of Starlink, as reported, will evidently contribute to creating a competitive market for the internet service providers in Bangladesh. It is for the first time that the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has issued licence to a Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) satellite internet service for its operation in the country. Starlink's NGSO satellites' signals reach the Earth faster and can provide a broader range of radio frequencies allowing for increased bandwidth and better data transfer speed. This internet service reportedly promises to offer unlimited data with speeds up to 300 Mbps (Megabits per second), a unit to measure the speed of data transfer. Compared to the existing broadband services in operation in Bangladesh, Starlink's would be, according to reports, more expensive with a one-time residential installation fee of Tk47,000 and a monthly subscription of Tk6,000 and Tk 4,200. So, considering the income level of common internet users in Bangladesh like students, researchers and freelancers, the service would hardly be affordable for them.

The question arises because Starlink's service is reportedly more suitable for users living in the countryside, remotely-placed areas including rugged terrains where the existing optical fibre infrastructure for broadband services has not reached. This undoubtedly gives this (Starlink) internet service a big advantage over those currently available in the urban areas. But in that case, considering the higher fees of Starlink service, its potential users in the underserved areas would obviously be at a disadvantage. The government would be required to take the cost issue into consideration while extending this high-speed, low-latency internet service to the country's remote areas. The government's financial support as well as arrangement for cheap credit from banks or financial services would be of help for students, self-earning women in online business and others operating in the countryside.

The government is reportedly also working to create a financial package to make Starlink available to those who would provide citizen service. To this end, the government is also learnt to have been planning to facilitate financing through microcredit authorities, financial organisations and banks. So far so good. Hopefully, Starlink's operation would not disrupt, but rather create a well-balanced ecosystem with the broadband infrastructures of the local internet service providers.

On the issue of data sovereignty, the special assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, is learnt to have assured that all Starlink data traffic would be routed through local gateways (Internet Service Providers, ISPs) in compliance with the national regulations. That is only expected of a tech company, foreign or local, willing to invest and operate in the country and, especially when as important an issue as all the sensitive data of the nation is involved. In this case, more important is the people looking after the law than the abstract law itself. One might recall at this point how National Identity Card information was leaked to third parties from the Election Commission (EC)'s database. Given that the country does not have so enviable a record on data protection, it is important to ensure that sensitive data of the nation are always in safe hands. This is more so when a number of international tech giants are learnt to have expressed their interest to operate in Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Starlink signing deals with local firms to expand footprint

Starlink is steadily consolidating its presence in Bangladesh through a series of partnership agreements with local companies, with deals spanning ground station development, colocation and data centre services, core site hosting, transmission, and international internet gateway (IIG) facilities.

www.thedailystar.net

Starlink signing deals with local firms to expand footprint

Starlink is steadily consolidating its presence in Bangladesh through a series of partnership agreements with local companies, with deals spanning ground station development, colocation and data centre services, core site hosting, transmission, and international internet gateway (IIG) facilities.

The Daily Star spoke to half a dozen individuals, including officials from companies involved in these partnerships. However, all requested anonymity, citing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) signed with Starlink.

Industry sources confirmed that most of the key deals have been secured by Fibre@Home and its affiliated companies.

The initial construction of Starlink's first ground station in the country is being carried out by Fibre@Home. The station is being developed at the Hi-Tech City in Kaliakair, Gazipur.

Starlink's servers will be hosted at Felicity IDC Limited, a Tier III data centre situated within the same park.

According to industry insiders, Fibre@Home and its subsidiaries offer a diverse portfolio, ranging from optical fibre infrastructure to data centres and internet services, making them a strong local partner for Starlink's operations.

Industry sources confirmed that most of the key deals have been secured by Fibre@Home and its affiliated companies

Additional ground stations are expected to be set up in the Software Technology Park in Jashore and in Cox's Bazar. In Jashore, Fibre@Home is providing the primary infrastructure for the Starlink facility there.

When approached for comment, Sajal Hazra, CEO of Fibre@Home Global Limited, confirmed the collaboration with Starlink but declined to disclose further details due to the NDA.

For transmission services, Starlink has partnered with Fibre@Home, Summit Communications, and Bahon Limited.

Both Fibre@Home and Summit Communications are in discussions with Starlink to provide international internet gateway (IIG) services.

In a separate development, multiple companies have secured authorised reseller status with Starlink, each paying nearly $2.5 million for the opportunity.

While Starlink primarily deals directly with consumers for its 'Residential' and 'Roam' plans globally, authorised B2B resellers are permitted to serve business and government clients under the Starlink Business and Priority plans.

In Bangladesh, reseller partners will have the option to serve both enterprise clients and individual residential customers, although the latter can also opt to subscribe directly via Starlink.

Under Starlink's commercial reseller model, the company's local entity — Starlink Bangladesh in this case — will handle importation of user terminals (kits), which will then be sold to resellers in local currency.

Resellers will receive a 15 percent discount on hardware and a 5 percent discount on service fees. They will also be provided with access to Starlink's reseller portal and API for customer management.

Resellers can set their own pricing, bill customers directly, and are encouraged to provide additional services such as installation, customised solutions, and ongoing technical support.

Potential client sectors include data centres, retail outlets, hospitals, financial institutions, manufacturing facilities, offshore rigs, and organisations in media, transportation, aviation, maritime, oil and energy, and construction.

Earlier, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) granted Starlink a temporary 90-day permit to supply bandwidth from abroad.

The decision came after Starlink requested a waiver to meet its service launch deadline, which would otherwise have expired before the establishment of a local internet gateway.

Starlink could not be reached for a comment.​

 

[Saif]

What this year’s budget means for the ICT sector

This fiscal plan allocates substantial resources to the ICT Division, Ministry of Science and Technology and other agencies tasked with developing digital infrastructure, nurturing tech talent and fostering start-ups.

www.thedailystar.net

What this year’s budget means for the ICT sector

The proposed national budget for the fiscal year 2025–26, presented by Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Adviser at Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Science and Technology, on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, lays out a wide-ranging plan for economic recovery, governance reform, and development across sectors.

Among its most significant themes is the decisive prioritisation of technology - both in terms of investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and scientific research, and the integration of digital tools and innovation to streamline governance, education, and public services.

This fiscal plan allocates substantial resources to the ICT Division, Ministry of Science and Technology and other agencies tasked with developing digital infrastructure, nurturing tech talent and fostering start-ups. With an emphasis on expanding mobile financial services, improving e-governance and supporting research and development, the budget underscores the government's ambition to transform Bangladesh into a knowledge-based economy.

A deep dive of the budget speech by Adviser Salehuddin reveals a series of concrete commitments and perspective shifts intended to foster a youthful, innovative and inclusive Bangladesh. Here are some of the key takeaways when it comes to the tech side of budget for FY 2025-26:

Allocation and digital infrastructure

In FY 2025–26, the ICT Division's allocation is BDT 2,144 crore, up roughly BDT 140 crore from the preceding year.

According to the budget speech by Adviser Salehuddin, "ICTD Digital Labs" have been installed in 5,000 schools and " ICTD School of the Future" rooms in 300 colleges to familiarise students with coding, robotics and other emerging technologies.

Under the Secondary and Higher Education Division, 62 projects are being implemented with an allocation of BDT 1,957 crore for educational infrastructure development and other initiatives, as per the Adviser.

Further investment will create ICT infrastructure, including necessary buildings and include classrooms, laboratories and incubation centres at universities including Dhaka University, BUET, and Jashore Science and Technology University. These measures are intended to equip a new generation of learners with the skills to participate in an increasingly digital economy.

Digital economy

A key pillar of the budget focuses on establishing a cashless society and strengthening e-governance. As of January 2025, Bangladesh has 239.3 million (approximately 23.93 crore) registered mobile financial service (MFS) accounts, of which around 42 per cent are held by women. The budget builds on this foundation by supporting the expansion of MFS for remittances, bill payments and government disbursements.

It also extends the "A-Challan" e-payment system, which now connects 61 commercial banks, enabling citizens to pay taxes and fees online via internet banking, debit cards and mobile financial services.

Notably, the iBAS++ electronic funds transfer (EFT) scheme already ensures that salaries for 1.4 million government employees and social welfare payments to beneficiaries are credited directly to bank accounts. A draft "e-Money Regulation" will underpin this digital push, promoting a secure and competitive environment for fintech and mobile wallet providers.

Easy investment initiatives and e-governance

Under the National Board of Revenue's (NBRs) Bangladesh Single Window (BSW) platform and a One-Stop Service (OSS) portal managed by the Bangladesh Investment Authority (BIDA), foreign and domestic businesses can apply for licences and approvals online. By reducing paperwork and improving transparency, these initiatives aim to attract further investment into the ICT sector and related industries.

The One Stop Service (OSS) portal currently provides a total of 134 services from 43 organisations. Steps have been taken to map all the investment services of the country across the sectors and include them in the OSS, as per Adviser Salehuddin's speech.

Education and skills hubs

Recognising that human capital is vital to any digital transformation, the budget devotes resources to technical training and capacity building. Alongside the expansion of computer labs, 36,020 teachers will continue to receive training in "ICT in Education, Literacy, Troubleshooting and Maintenance."

In rural areas, "Upazila Service and Information Technology Training Centres" will be created in 491 upazilas, providing training for young people. To promote freelancing as a source of employment, training has already begun for 28,800 "educated and job-seeking youths" in 48 districts, according to the speech by Adviser Salehuddin.

Proposal to create a 100 crore fund

Considering the potential of the IT sector and encouraging new entrepreneurs in this sector, I propose to allocate Tk 100 crore as start-up fund in the next fiscal year, said Adviser Salehuddin.

This is complemented by the proposal of an additional BDT 100 crore fund for the young entrepreneurs. "This is the first time such a fund is going to be created," the adviser added.

Playing to Bangladesh's demographic advantage, the budget also places a strong emphasis on youth empowerment. In his speech, the adviser said, "To involve the youth more deeply in the process of development of the country, I propose to allocate Tk 100 crore for the celebration of 'Tarunyer Utshob (Youth Festival)' in the next fiscal year."

While loan ceilings for trained youths were doubled to a maximum of Tk 200,000, and to Tk 500,000 for "successful young entrepreneurs." Projects will provide training and credit to 9 lakh youths by 2028, including self-employment generating projects to support families affected by the July Mass Uprising.

Moreover, the budget highlights MoU with NASA under the Artemis programme which was signed in Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, giving Bangladeshi students an opportunity to collaborate in space exploration efforts with 54 other countries. By linking young talent to global space exploration efforts, the government hopes to inspire further interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and advanced research.

Science and research funding

In FY 2024–25, the budget had already awarded research grants of approximately Tk 16.66 crore to 492 university projects, and provided fellowships to 1,500 researchers.

For FY 2025–26, the government has earmarked Tk 200 crore specifically for research on marine resources and the blue economy, as well as for fundamental science studies.

Energy, environment and technology Initiatives

Officials are finalising a revised Renewable Energy Policy, with the target that by 2040, 30 percent of electricity will be generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind and bio-energy.

Under an ongoing Integrated Power Sector Master Plan, the government aims to add 3,400 MW of clean energy capacity by 2028. To increase domestic energy security, Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) will undertake exploration and production programmes, including 270 km of geological surveys and over 700 km of seismic mapping in both 2-D and 3-D from FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28. Additionally, BAPEX plans to drill 69 new wells and refurbish 31 existing wells using its own rigs, a move intended to reduce reliance on imported fuel and control energy prices.

In the transport of petroleum products, the budget supports a new Vehicle Tracking System for 2,465 fuel oil tank lorries, employing Smart Fuel Distribution Monitoring System (SFDMS) technology which aims to enhance transparency, minimise theft and ensure safe delivery of fuel across the country, mentioned Adviser Salehuddin in his budget speech.

Tech in environment and climate change also received significant attention as a BDT 100 crore allocation to the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund will underwrite digital monitoring of all approved climate projects, while initiatives to reduce single-use plastic and expand afforestation are also financed.

By harnessing data-driven systems for both energy logistics and environmental protection, the budget reflects a broader vision of technology as a tool for sustainable development.

Final thoughts

Taken together, the FY 2025–26 budget provides a multi-pronged strategy to establish Bangladesh as a digital economy. It combines investments in hard infrastructure like computer labs, exploration equipment, renewable energy projects along with support for soft infrastructure such as teacher training, research fellowships, digital skills centres and start-up funds.

By prioritising in tech related topics like mobile financial services, e-governance platforms, science research and renewable energy, the government seeks to reduce dependency on imports, foster domestic innovation, and create employment for youth.

Whether the planned funds and initiatives translate into concrete outcomes will depend on implementation in the coming year. However, the budget speech by Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed makes clear that technology and innovation are now officially high on Bangladesh's agenda, an important signal to citizens and investors alike.​

 

[Saif]

Cybersecurity in Bangladesh 2025: Is your data safe?

According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), we have over 132 million internet users in Bangladesh. This online presence has transformed how people live, work, and communicate. Yet, it also exposes Bangladesh to a growing amount of cyber threats. As more critical...

www.thedailystar.net

Cybersecurity in Bangladesh 2025: Is your data safe?

The country’s digital future depends on a coordinated, sustained effort from government, industry, and civil society to build a resilient and secure ecosystem capable of withstanding increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Illustration: Zarif Faiaz

According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), we have over 132 million internet users in Bangladesh. This online presence has transformed how people live, work, and communicate. Yet, it also exposes Bangladesh to a growing amount of cyber threats. As more critical services and personal data move online, the urgency to strengthen cybersecurity has never been greater.

Despite advancements in legislation, including the Digital Security Act of 2018 and the Cyber Security Act of 2023, Bangladesh has consistently struggled to protect its digital infrastructure, largely due to shortcomings in implementation by the previous regime. As SM Nazmul Hasan, CEO of software development company Kolpolok, puts it, "These laws were determined to suppress free speech rather than actively address the cybersecurity issues. Also, the strategies struggled with practical execution due to insufficient resources and coordination with various government entities."

Concerns over Bangladesh's cybersecurity have long been raised but are often met with limited response. Allan Watanabe, CEO of international cybersecurity firm Pipeline Inc., recalls sending direct messages to high-standing government officials in the previous regime about critical data leaks, including the infamous National ID breach, only to be ignored.

"We tried to raise these issues directly to the government but were not taken into account," says Watanabe. "Unfortunately, this led to several high-profile breaches, showing the need for comprehensive strategies and better governance." He describes the current cybersecurity landscape in Bangladesh as rapidly evolving but warns that the country still faces significant challenges, including limited technical expertise, insufficient infrastructure, and inadequate policies.

Shahab Al Yamin Chawdhury, Chief Information Security Officer of Link3 Technologies, points to the creation of the Bangladesh Cyber Security Intelligence (BCSI) as a step towards proactive defence. Yet he warns that organisations often focus heavily on hardware protection, while neglecting endpoint protection and employee training, leaving systems vulnerable to ransomware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks."This imbalance can leave systems vulnerable to various cyber threats, including ransomware, phishing, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks," he states.

Watanabe also highlights the urgency created by recent data leaks and rising cybercrime. "Government-led efforts and initiatives to digitise services indicate progress," he adds but cautions that the current technologies and infrastructures in Bangladesh are insufficient to fully combat advanced threats.

Despite recent advancements, Bangladesh's cybersecurity environment continues to face significant weaknesses while critical vulnerabilities remain. This is especially true in vital infrastructure sectors, where insufficient public awareness and a shortage of skilled professionals hamper effective defence.

Hasan explains, "Vulnerabilities persist, particularly in critical infrastructure, due to a lack of public awareness and skilled professionals." He warns that the country's heavy reliance on foreign cybersecurity solutions is unsustainable, noting that "Bangladesh has made little progress in software product development, especially in cybersecurity. Currently, we rely 100% on foreign products, which is not sustainable."

But it's not all about the product or the government. Cultural and organisational challenges exist, which only compound the technical issues. Md Muqeet Halim, CEO of cybersecurity consultancy firm Beetle CS, highlights a pervasive security mindset problem across many organisations. He observes that "the overall cybersecurity scene is still immature", with many entities focusing on regulatory compliance rather than building true security resilience.

According to Halim, "Weak security culture is the biggest challenge. Cybersecurity is not a feature. It is a process, and most fail to realise that." This cultural gap manifests in reactive, rather than proactive, approaches to cybersecurity. This reactive approach leaves organisations vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated threats.

Something that can truly help Bangladesh's cybersecurity challenges is public and private sector collaboration, which shows promise but remains underdeveloped. Allan Watanabe acknowledges that joint efforts such as cybersecurity forums and CERT cooperation have begun to bridge gaps. However, he admits that communication gaps remain and notes, "Trust issues hinder open sharing of threat intelligence with private sector expertise remaining underutilised."

Chawdhury notes initiatives like Public-Private Partnerships and the BUILD platform as frameworks encouraging dialogue and investment, yet both experts agree that these mechanisms require further strengthening. In contrast, Halim points to a deeper systemic problem, stating that "Organisations, both government and private, operate in silos with no proper information sharing," and calls for establishing local cybersecurity forums to facilitate coordinated knowledge exchange.

On the technological front, it's just as bleak.

Watanabe highlights the lack of modern threat intelligence platforms, widespread use of outdated systems, and limited adoption of cloud technologies as notable weaknesses. Chawdhury stresses the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to keep pace with evolving cyber threats.

Although Bangladesh's legal framework has advanced, it remains incomplete and sometimes misaligned with modern cybersecurity needs. Hasan points out that while the Cybersecurity Ordinance 2024 represents a significant improvement, it still falls short in providing comprehensive data protection measures. He adds, "Bangladesh must develop more robust data protection laws that align with international standards, such as the EU's GDPR."

Halim criticises existing legislation for focusing disproportionately on censorship and surveillance at the expense of safeguarding citizens and organisations. He advocates for clearer laws and stricter penalties that prioritise data protection and enforcement to enhance overall cybersecurity resilience.

Looking to the future, the four industry leaders agree that sustained development of skilled human resources, technological capacity, and governance frameworks will be essential.

Watanabe envisions a Bangladesh with strong public-private partnerships supported by a national cybersecurity framework aligned with global standards, which would provide a solid foundation for addressing emerging risks. Hasan underscores the importance of fostering local innovation in cybersecurity products, highlighting Kolpolok's global VPN solution as a successful example that needs government support to scale further. Halim emphasises the need to instil a security-first and human-first approach, advocating for mandatory offensive security audits to supplement compliance-based assessments across both public and private sectors.

Despite the challenges ahead, a cautiously optimistic outlook prevails.

Watanabe adds in the end, "With consistent government support, private sector collaboration and investments in education and technology, Bangladesh has the potential to establish itself as a regional leader in cybersecurity." Halim concurs, asserting, "Successful implementation of a national cybersecurity strategy and workforce development will significantly lower risks and improve security over the next decade."

In 2025, Bangladesh's cybersecurity landscape stands at a pivotal crossroads. Progress in legislation, infrastructure, and awareness contrasts with persistent vulnerabilities in skills, culture, and collaboration.

Progressing in the right direction could establish us as a regional leader in cybersecurity. However, if we succumb to stagnation as we have in past decades, it will result in increased cyberattacks, more data breaches, and potentially devastating damage to critical infrastructure.

The country's digital future depends on a coordinated, sustained effort from government, industry, and civil society to build a resilient and secure ecosystem capable of withstanding increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The power is in our hands.​