[🇧🇩] Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Telecom leaders plead for independent BTRC

Industry leaders in the telecom sector have called for a truly independent Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), urging that reforms should be free from political bias and favouritism. They underscored the need to curb autocratic practices in the use of technology, ensure bala

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Telecom leaders plead for independent BTRC
Reforms crucial to rectify past missteps
FE REPORT
Published :
Oct 18, 2024 09:14
Updated :
Oct 18, 2024 09:14

Industry leaders in the telecom sector have called for a truly independent Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), urging that reforms should be free from political bias and favouritism.

They underscored the need to curb autocratic practices in the use of technology, ensure balanced licensing and promote equal opportunities for all.

The demand was raised at a stakeholder meeting on the ecosystem review of the sector at the telecom regulator's headquarters at Agargaon on Thursday.

Md Roknuzzaman, an electrical and computer engineering professor at North South University, delivered a keynote speech, highlighting the need to dismantle the existing market monopoly.

BTRC chairman Maj Gen (retd) Emdad Ul Bari presided over the meeting with industry leaders and representatives of various telecom organisations in attendance.

Mr Bari acknowledged that mobile services in Bangladesh were originally launched with the goal of enhancing connectivity, rather than mobility, and that the infrastructure was primarily designed for voice-call networks.

However, introduction of data services and growing concern over VoIP usage have complicated the sector's growth, with the industry struggling to adapt.

He acknowledged the global shift towards data-driven services, describing data as the "lifeline" of modern telecom infrastructure.

"Clinging to outdated network topologies is no longer feasible," remarked Mr Bari, stressing the urgency of reform.

While state monopolies have been diminished, he noted that private monopolies have emerged, requiring regulatory interventions.

"BTRC must act as an independent commission free from political interference, especially in licensing matters," Mr Bari said, adding that reforms were needed to rectify past missteps and align the ecosystem with industry demands.

He also pointed out that many licences would expire by 2027, urging swift action to create customer-friendly infrastructure and eliminate middlemen.

Industry figures like technology expert Suman Ahmed Sabir, Robi CEO Rajib Shetty, former AMTOB president Mahtab Uddin Ahmed and Mango Telecom CEO Mannan Khan offered their perspectives.

Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) president Emdadul Haque stated that a level-playing field was yet to be established, with fixed pricing for ISPs and IIGs but not for mobile operators.

He also pointed out obstacles in deploying CDNs in the last mile along with tax and VAT issues that prevent the reduction of internet costs at grass-roots level.

Responding to media queries after the meeting, the BTRC chief acknowledged that licences were previously granted based on favouritism, often resulting in suboptimal service.

He emphasised the need for clear and dependable regulations, stating that BTRC's transformation from a telecommunications regulator into a digital service provider was underway.

Global tech giants like Google and Facebook will invest in Bangladesh once trust in the regulatory framework is restored, according to Mr Bari, hinting at imminent reforms involving industry, academia and regulatory experts.

Meanwhile, ex-Robi CEO Mahtab emphasised BTRC's reform, pointing out that telecom department and relevant ministries should not be involved in BTRC's decision-making processes.

"The BTRC must be empowered to make autonomous decisions without interference from other government bodies," he observed.

Mr Ahmed argued that data pricing should remain untouched, given that 60-70 per cent of telecom revenue comes from voice calls.

He sought a unified licensing system in sync with global practices and advocated that towers be managed by Towerco, with both active and passive infrastructure sharing among operators to curb market concentration.

Additionally, the telecom expert suggested utilising unused bandwidth from submarine cables and transferring control of domestic data centres from the ICT Division to the BTRC.

According to Mr Ahmed, the BTRC must prioritise long-term industry growth over merely acting as a revenue-collecting body.​

 

[Saif]

BTRC fines top three mobile operators Tk 15 lakh

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has decided to impose a fine of Tk 15 lakh on Grameenphone, Robi and Banglalink for breaching industry regulations.

www.thedailystar.net

BTRC fines top three mobile operators Tk 15 lakh

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has decided to impose a fine of Tk 15 lakh on Grameenphone, Robi and Banglalink for breaching industry regulations.

Each operator will have to pay Tk 5 lakh for sending more than three promotional SMS per day to their customers, according to BTRC documents.

In a BTRC directive on data and related packages issued last year, mobile operators were instructed to not send more than three promotional SMSs daily.

The decision to penalise Grameenphone, Robi and Banglalink follows months of contention between the BTRC and operators regarding this issue.

The BTRC argued that sending more than three promotional SMSs daily would mentally harass the customers and that the operators' violation distorts the regulator's image.

However, the operators claim that sending more than three SMSs is necessary as the delivery rate of SMS to customers is less than 70 percent due to issues with handsets, inactive SIMs and other reasons.

They also said sending more than three promotional SMSs daily is vital for them as doing so enables direct communication with customers regarding new products, services and AI-driven personalised offers.

Besides, this approach enhances service diversification, assists in product selection and fosters customer engagement by addressing individual preferences and behaviour.

The BTRC first cautioned Grameenphone in late October last year and asked for an explanation in April this year as to why the company needs to send more than three SMSs per day to customers.

The SMS delivery rate per customer averages around 68 percent due to system limitations, customer handset issues, and other factors, Grameenphone explained in response.

For churned or inactive customers, the rate can drop to as low as 30 percent. Therefore, to ensure three SMSs are received by customers, more than three SMSs need to be sent, the operator said.

The BTRC also cautioned Banglalink last year and asked for an explanation in May this year.

In its response, the operator stated that despite technical challenges, it had taken steps to limit daily promotional SMS distribution.

However, it argued that the three-SMS restriction hinders the promotion of new services and products in response to evolving communication needs and increasing customer demand.

Most of Banglalink's customers are non-smartphone 2G device users with limited access to digital promotion channels, making them cost-conscious buyers.

Therefore, Banglalink relies heavily on SMS to communicate with this segment, considering it an effective way to reach marginalised, non-smartphone users.

Banglalink argued that enforcing the three-SMS limit is discriminatory and deprives customers of suitable product offers.

Robi was cautioned in late October last year and asked for an explanation in November that year for sending more than three SMSs per day to the customers.

Robi replied that sending promotional SMS is essential for service diversification, product selection and AI-based notifications. Robi also highlighted that its SMS platform operates separately from its data and voice platforms, making it technically infeasible to restrict the number of SMS sent.

Experts have raised questions about such micro-management by the commission, especially given the availability of the Do Not Disturb (DND) service.

The mobile operators introduced the option to block promotional SMS several years ago following BTRC instructions.

Customers can activate the DND service by dialling short codes: Grameenphone (1211101#), Banglalink (1218*6#), and Robi/Airtel (*7#).

Abu Nazam M Tanveer Hossain, a telecom expert, said while strict enforcement of laws and bylaws is essential for maintaining governance and the rule of law, it is equally important that these regulations are logical, practical and add value.

"While promotional SMSs can be disruptive, consumers have the option to opt out," he added.

Therefore, regulatory focus should prioritise crucial issues like rollout obligations, quality of service and fostering competitive behaviour rather than emphasising less critical concerns like promotional messaging, Hossain said.

"The BTRC is currently revisiting the current data directive. Imposing any fine based on the previous directive has ample space for revision," said Shahed Alam, chief corporate and regulatory officer of Robi Axiata PLC.​

 

[Saif]

Overhauling of telecom industry through regulatory reform suggested

Speakers at a discussion on Saturday stressed the need for overhauling the country’s telecommunication industry through bringing regulatory reforms to achieve meaningful progress in this changed Bangladesh. They also suggested a pro-people regulatory atmosphere to outreach the benefits of in

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Overhauling of telecom industry through regulatory reform suggested
FE Online Desk
Published :
Oct 19, 2024 15:48
Updated :
Oct 19, 2024 15:48

Speakers at a discussion on Saturday stressed the need for overhauling the country’s telecommunication industry through bringing regulatory reforms to achieve meaningful progress in this changed Bangladesh.

They also suggested a pro-people regulatory atmosphere to outreach the benefits of internet and other telecommunication-based services to the people at every nook and cranny, UNB reports.

Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers' Association (BMPCA) organized the discussion meeting “BTRC’s empowerment, amendment of telecommunication act and present situation” at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity.

Mahtab Uddin Ahmed, Founder and managing director of BuildCon Consultancies, in his keynote presentation, said Bangladesh’s telecom regulation is hampered by overlapping responsibilities between the Telecom Ministry, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and Department of Telecommunications (DOT).

“This creates inefficiencies and slows down progress,” he observed, suggesting the interim government to merge BTRC with DOT.

“The interim government must streamline regulatory roles by merging DOT with BTRC, enabling BTRC to both regulate and formulate policy, while the Ministry provides overarching guidance,” he added.

Mahtab, who was the CEO of mobile phone operator Robi, opined, “Without this reform, meaningful progress in the telecom sector will remain elusive.”

Bangladesh’s telecom sector is being held back by monopolistic control, outdated policies, and regulatory inefficiencies, he said, adding, “If the country truly wants to achieve "Smart Bangladesh," it’s time to prioritize national interests, remove political cronyism, and create a competitive environment that fosters innovation, growth, and digital inclusivity for all.”

Mahtab Uddin Ahmed in the meeting placed a new three-tier licensing model to address the evolving needs of the telecom industry, which aims to streamline services, improve quality, and align Bangladesh with regional best practices.

Initially, he suggested end-user access to telecom networks for voice and data, including Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

Additionally, he opted for Infrastructure Service and this layer covers towers, fibre, and submarine cable services, offering transmission support to MNOs, ISPs, and MVNOs.

Furthermore, he advocated for services and contents, which would focuses on delivering digital services beyond traditional telecom offerings, enhancing customer experiences.

“This model would optimize Bangladesh's 2,900+ licenses across 29 categories,” added Mahtab.

Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, a telecom policy analyst, also advocated for an effective telecom regulation as well as encouraging the content creators to develop educative contents.

ISPAB President Emdadul Hoque laid emphasis on full independence of BTRC, saying if BTRC had independent characteristics, it wouldn’t have been issued licenses in political consideration.

“We wouldn’t get an appropriate policy until BTRC has the authority to issue and revoke license as well as get full monitoring access,” he said, adding that BTRC should have the authority to act as an independent commission for the better industry.

About the reassessment of different layers of licenses, the ISPAB President recommended for discussion with the stakeholders to avoid any disorder, as so many licenses have already been issued for different jobs.

BMPCA President Mohiuddin Ahmed urged the telecom regulator as well the government to bring different operators under accountability as many of those are not complying with QoS.​

 

[Saif]

Defying guidelines, NTTN operators yet to go public

Five of the six operators of Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Network (NTTN) have not gone public despite being mandated to float shares on the stock market several years ago.

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Defying guidelines, NTTN operators yet to go public

Representational image/Pixabay

Five of the six operators of Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Network (NTTN) have not gone public despite being mandated to float shares on the stock market several years ago.

According to the NTTN licensing guidelines, which is primarily on laying underground optical fibres, an operator must file for an initial public offering (IPO) within five years of obtaining the licence.

Bangladesh currently has six NTTN licensees, including three state-run agencies and three private companies.

However, only the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd (PGCB) is listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange.

None of the others, which were all awarded the licence between 10 years to 15 years ago, have floated shares to the public.

The companies are Fibre@Home Ltd, Summit Communications Ltd, Bahon Limited, Bangladesh Railway, and Bangladesh Telecommunication Company Ltd (BTCL).

Fibre@Home secured the licence in January 2009 while Summit Communications, a concern of power sector heavyweight Summit Group, received theirs in December of the same year.

Bangladesh Railway, PGCB and BTCL received the licence in 2014, according to Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).

Bahon Limited received its licence in December 2019.

Moynul Haque Siddiqui, chairman of Fibre@Home Ltd, said his company planned to go public long ago.

However, the previous government's decision to change the IPO valuation method discouraged companies with good fundamentals from going public, he said.

"This is the reason behind the delay. Good companies are unwilling to come to the stock market with the current valuation method for share prices," he said, adding that they had already informed Bangladesh Investment Development Authority about the issue.

In a letter sent in May, the BTRC asked Fibre@Home to take steps to float shares.

"We expect to issue an IPO by December. We expect that policy regarding the valuation will change by this time," Siddiqui said.

Summit Communications, in an emailed response, said it had initially planned to file for an IPO, but outlined reasons it could not.

"Due to local market challenges, unforeseen global challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, which severely impacted both local and international financial markets, we were unable to proceed as intended," it said.

The largest infrastructure company in the telecom and internet sector in Bangladesh said it had "diligently worked towards securing the necessary no objection certificate from BTRC, but the timing was not conducive to moving forward with the listing process at that time".

Summit Communications said it remains fully committed to pursuing an IPO as soon as market conditions stabilise and become more favourable.

However, it did not provide any timeline.

"We continue to monitor the broader economic environment and aim to proceed when we are confident that the market is positioned for forward-looking stability," it said.

"Once these conditions align, we are prepared to move forward with the listing at the earliest opportunity, in line with our long-term vision for sustainable growth and maximising value creation," the company said.

BTRC Chairman Md Emdad Ul Bari said the commission had asked licensees who are obligated to go public to do so.

"We have also decided to ask them to explain the reasons behind their failures and their plans for going public," Bari, a former major general, said.

Mohammad Rezaul Karim, spokesperson of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission, said the primary regulator should enforce the rules.

"If companies do not comply, the BTRC should enforce the rule. If there is any bottleneck, we can work to address those," he said.

Karim added that a task force was working to suggest reforms for the capital market, which may include revisiting the valuation method of IPOs.

"If the panel recommends anything regarding the valuation method of IPOs, the commission will consider it," he said.

In a WhatsApp reply, the BTCL said the state company is providing comprehensive telecom services under 10 licences issued by the BTRC.

"The BTCL maintains one account against revenue from the services it offers under these licences," it said.

"So, there is no scope to separate NTTN's (revenue) from the accounts. Yet, the BTCL is committed to comply with the guidelines by the BTRC," it said, but did not mention any time regarding going public.​

 

[Saif]

BTRC's draft satellite internet guideline risks becoming a digital gatekeeper

This draft policy is hiding a central duality in plain sight: Bangladesh is eager to welcome cutting-edge satellite technology, yet appears equally intent on tightly controlling its operation.

www.thedailystar.net

BTRC's draft satellite internet guideline risks becoming a digital gatekeeper

This draft policy is hiding a central duality in plain sight: Bangladesh is eager to welcome cutting-edge satellite technology, yet appears equally intent on tightly controlling its operation.

The draft guidelines from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), named Regulatory and Licensing Guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operators in Bangladesh, outline a bold plan to connect the country's digital space with the growing global sensation of satellite internet connectivity. Image: Zarif Faiaz/Tech & Startup

Bangladesh's ambitious new policy draft, aimed at regulating non-geostationary satellite operators like Elon Musk's Starlink, is as innovative as it is restrictive. The draft guidelines from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), named Regulatory and Licensing Guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operators in Bangladesh, outline a bold plan to connect the country's digital space with satellite internet connectivity. However, this draft policy is hiding a central duality in plain sight: Bangladesh is eager to welcome cutting-edge satellite technology, yet appears equally intent on tightly controlling its operation.

A restrictive embrace of satellite connectivity

Satellite internet, particularly Starlink, has been long sought after by the country's IT community. Starlink itself is trying to get in for the last 2 years. The draft guidelines beacon a welcome move, but it risks entangling this technology in regulatory limitations. For instance, the requirement that all satellite data pass through local gateways connected to the country's International Internet Gateway (IIG) undermines one of satellite internet's primary benefits: its independence from national infrastructure. This dependency could mean that even satellite users might experience government-mandated shutdowns, as happened in Bangladesh during the July uprising, a scenario that seems counterproductive for a nation striving to modernise its digital landscape.

The guidelines are equally rigorous regarding national security and data monitoring, where the government's intent to exert control is unmistakable. Satellite companies, such as Starlink, are required to adhere to local data-sharing laws, including compliance with the Cyber Security Act, effectively granting access to the National Telecommunication Monitoring Center (NTMC). The NTMC's surveillance powers are extensive, allowing for monitoring, storage, and even blocking of user data, ostensibly in the name of security. Satellite operators must store user data—specifically Internet Protocol Detail Records (IPDR) and Call Detail Records (CDR)—for up to a year, a burdensome requirement that may deter operators from entering the market.

This emphasis on surveillance echoes recent controversies around Bangladesh's cybersecurity policies, which critics argue are sometimes used to suppress dissent rather than protect citizens. Such a regulatory landscape contrasts sharply with the privacy-focused, decentralised model championed by satellite operators. Starlink's entry into other markets has emphasised user privacy and minimal governmental intervention—characteristics that could be at odds with Bangladesh's approach.

Even for companies willing to navigate Bangladesh's complex regulatory environment, financial barriers remain high. The guidelines mandate a non-refundable application fee of BDT 5 lakh, an annual license fee of $50,000 USD, and a 5.5% annual revenue share, along with a 1% revenue contribution to a space industry development fund. These fees are a formidable entry cost, manageable perhaps for Starlink, but prohibitive for smaller operators, limiting competition and market diversity.

Operational restrictions add further limitations. The draft prohibits satellite providers from offering services beyond those outlined in Clause 16.4, which lists standard satellite offerings but excludes options like direct-to-home broadcasting or satellite-based mobile communications. This stifles the potential for satellite operators to adapt their services to meet the evolving needs of Bangladesh's digital landscape, reducing the competitive and innovative value that these services might otherwise bring.

Stifling the benefits of global connectivity

Bangladesh's guidelines reflect an emerging trend in its digital governance—embracing technology, but on controlled terms. The central question remains whether these strict measures balance national security and digital progress effectively or risk isolating the nation from the benefits of global connectivity. Bangladesh's recent history of internet shutdowns underlines the potential for sweeping shutdown powers. Extending this authority to satellite internet could hinder Bangladesh's digital aspirations, potentially severing the country from global communication channels during critical times.

The BTRC has opened the guidelines for public input until November 18, inviting citizens, businesses, and experts to voice their opinions on the policy's merits and challenges. This consultation phase offers a crucial opportunity for stakeholders to advocate for a more balanced regulatory approach—one that prioritises security without stifling innovation.

To realise the transformative potential of satellite internet, the BTRC must consider moderating its more restrictive measures. Adopting a more flexible regulatory stance—allowing satellite operators a degree of operational independence within defined security frameworks—could create an open market where companies of all sizes can contribute to a digitally inclusive Bangladesh. Revisiting data-sharing requirements and valuing privacy as a trust-building measure with international operators will also be key to creating a mutually beneficial regulatory environment.

Zarif Faiaz is the In-Charge at The Daily Star's Tech & Startup section.​

 

[Saif]

Mobile phone operators hail govt move to introduce satellite internet

Mobile phone operators and other stakeholders have welcomed the move of opening doors for satellite internet, appealing to telecom regulator to consider collaborative approach and non-discriminatory treatment for successful integration of this service into the country’s telecommunications lan

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Mobile phone operators hail govt move to introduce satellite internet
BSS
Published :
Nov 08, 2024 17:16
Updated :
Nov 08, 2024 17:16

Mobile phone operators and other stakeholders have welcomed the move of opening doors for satellite internet, appealing to telecom regulator to consider collaborative approach and non-discriminatory treatment for successful integration of this service into the country’s telecommunications landscape.

They said the initiative might unleash new opportunities for bridging digital divides alongside backhauling, disaster management and customer data utilisation.

The operators and stakeholders, however, are meticulously reviewing draft guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Service to assess the possible impact of it into the industry as it could pave way of wholly owned foreign companies to obtain licenses such as Elon Musk's Starlink and similar companies to enter Bangladesh.

The telecom regulator -Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) - on October 29 uploaded the draft regulatory and licensing guidelines for NGSO Satellite Service Operator on website, seeking opinion by November 18 to finalise the guidelines.

Talking to BSS news agency, Shahed Alam, chief corporate and regulatory officer of Robi Axiata, said, “We welcome the initiative to introduce satellite internet in our country, recognizing its potential to revolutionise data services.”

He noted that this advancement could pave the way for new opportunities in areas such as backhauling, disaster management and customer data utilization.

On the contrary, Shahed Alam expressed their concerns regarding the proposed guidelines and the existing ecosystem for implementing such services, as they may prove impractical.

He said, “We believe that a collaborative approach is essential to ensure the successful integration of satellite internet into our telecommunications landscape.”

Taimur Rahman, chief corporate and regulatory affairs officer at Banglalink, said, "The regulator’s initiative to conduct a public consultation before introducing this new service is commendable, which we appreciate.”

He continued, “We’re confident that this process will provide essential insights to help shape its future direction.”

As this service is new to Bangladesh, Taimur Rahman said, they are diligently reviewing the BTRC’s guidelines to evaluate its impact on the telecommunications sector and foreign direct investment (FDI) in both the short and long terms.

“Following a thorough assessment, we will submit our feedback to the BTRC,” he said, adding, “It is vital that we consider the interests of all stakeholders in the digital ecosystem."

Sharfuddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Head of Communications, Grameenphone, said, "Grameenphone welcomes any new technology that brings positive change to people's lives, society, the economy, and the country as a whole.”

However, the introduction of any new license should ensure non-discriminatory treatment that promotes market competitiveness among all players, including existing ones, across the entire value chain, he added.

Sharfuddin noted, “It is important to thoroughly assess the security implications of all aspects of the new technology and incorporate the necessary provisions in the licensing obligations to address these concerns.”

Appreciating BTRC for initiating the consultation process, he said, “We’re currently reviewing the draft guidelines and will respond to BTRC."

Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB), a platform of firms engaged in providing internet services to the customers, is also ready to welcome any new technologies. Before that, it emphasised to identify the necessity of this technology first before moving to it.

ISPAB President Md Emdadul Hoque told BSS that they always welcome new technologies if those are suitable for the country and industry.

“We’ve no objection to welcome new technologies, but priority should be considered first whether the technology is suitable for the country and its people,” he said.

The ISPAB President suggested the telecom regular to consult with the stakeholders before switching to the new service, as foreign companies will take the money out of the country.

The draft guidelines said that proprietorship, partnership and companies registered under “Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms” under the Companies Act 1994 are eligible to apply for the license to build, own, maintain and operate NGSO Satellite systems and services in Bangladesh.

It also mentioned that 100 percent FDI or Foreign Partnership or Joint Venture or investment from Non-Resident Bangladeshi (NRB) is permitted to build, own, maintain and operate NGSO Satellite systems and services.

According to the draft guidelines, the license will be valid for five years.

It adds that the licensee is authorised to provide the following NGSO satellite services: broadband internet services, intranet services (domestic data communications), Internet of Things and machine-to-machine communication, earth station in motion service, earth exploration satellite service, remote sensing/meteorological services and any other services approved by the BTRC.

However, operators aren’t authorised to provide direct-to-home services, broadcasting services, satellite IMT-based services or telecommunications services.

The application/processing fee has been set at Tk 500000, with an acquisition fee of $10,000 and an annual fee of $50,000. Additionally, an annual station/terminal fee per terminal is set at $20.

The licensee will also have to share 5.5 per cent of its annual audited gross revenue with the BTRC. Another 1 per cent of the gross revenue must be paid as part of the "contribution to space industry development and management".

The licensee must establish at least one gateway system within Bangladesh before commencing services. However, the BTRC encouraged the licensee to establish additional gateways.

Any user terminal placed within Bangladesh's geographical boundary must be authenticated and served through this local gateway. All traffic from these terminals must be routed through this local gateway for services within Bangladesh, according to the draft.

The NGSO gateway shall connect to international internet gateways to handle international internet data traffic.​

 

[Bilal9]

Bangladesh has the most expensive Internet and also the slowest one in all of Asia, including the subcontinent.

BTRC's first job now needs to be squeezing the free-for-all dance these providers are doing and bring our Internet bandwidth and quality to Asian if not world standards.

These cell providers should be held to book on why they can't provide the service level agreement (SLA) they have with customers.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh slips a notch in mobile internet speed: Ookla

Bangladesh has slipped a notch in its global ranking for mobile internet speed performance, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index.

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh slips a notch in mobile internet speed: Ookla
Staff Correspondent 29 November, 2024, 22:28

Bangladesh has slipped a notch in its global ranking for mobile internet speed performance, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index.

The country stood at 89th place out of 111 countries in Ookla’s mobile internet speed index for October. The country previously held the 88th position in September.

The index highlighted that the average mobile internet download speed in Bangladesh decreased to 27.56 Mbps in October from 28.42 Mbps in September.

Globally, United Arab Emirates held the top position of the list, offering the fastest mobile internet with an average speed of 428.53 Mbps in the reporting period. This is up from 413.14 Mbps, showing that UAE continues to provide high-speed internet to its users.

Neighbouring country India also ranked high, holding the 26th position with an average download speed of 95.67 Mbps in October. India has remained in the same position it held in September, although the median download speed saw a slight increase from 91.72 Mbps.

Among the other South Asian countries, Maldives is at 25th position, Pakistan at 100th, Sri Lanka at 103th and Afghanistan is at 111th position in terms of mobile internet speed. The October report did not include data from Myanmar.

Bangladesh’s mobile network landscape is dominated by five major providers, namely Banglalink, Grameenphone, Robi, Airtel and Teletalk.

Among them, Banglalink has emerged as the fastest internet provider. According to the report, 89 per cent of Banglalink’s tests showed a minimum download speed of at least 5 Mbps and an upload speed of at least 1 Mbps.

In addition to mobile internet, Bangladesh also deteriorated in fixed broadband speed. The country has moved down three places to rank 101th globally among 158 countries, compared to its previous position of 108th.

The report states that the median fixed broadband download speed in October was 48.06 Mbps compared with 48.38 Mbps reported in the previous month.

Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, which provided these rankings, is a widely recognised tool that compares internet speeds across the world.​

 

[Saif]

BTRC rejects proposal

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission has refused a proposal to provide transit for bandwidth to India through Bangladesh as the transit might weaken Bangladesh’s role as a regional digital hub...

www.newagebd.net

BTRC rejects proposal
Taufiq Hossain Mobin 05 December, 2024, 00:45

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission has refused a proposal to provide transit for bandwidth to India through Bangladesh as the transit might weaken Bangladesh’s role as a regional digital hub.

The BTRC issued a letter in this regard on December 1.

International terrestrial cable operators ‘Summit Communications’ and ‘Fiber at Home’ submitted an application during the former Awami Legue government to the BTRC for its approval to permit Bharti Airtel Limited to run a transit connection from Akhaura border to Singapore by establishing an internet circuit at Akhaura border.

A terrestrial cable is a communications cable which crosses land, rather than water.

Contacted, several BTRC officials denied commenting on the matter.

They, however, said that the transit would offer minimal benefits to Bangladesh. The primary beneficiaries would have been Summit Communications and Fiber at Home, which were allegedly connected with the deposed Awami League government. The actual advantage would have gone to India.

Bharti Airtel submitted the proposal to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry then forwarded it to the Post and Telecommunication Division and then to BTRC for evaluation.

According to a letter issued by the engineering and operations division of the commission on December 1, the BTRC decided not to approve the application after reviewing it.

Content delivery networks, such as Google, Meta, Akamai, and Amazon might be discouraged to establish their data centres in Bangladesh, if the International Private Leased Circuit transit connection is approved, the letter said.

This kind of connection will weaken Bangladesh’s position as a regional digital hub, it said.

‘The capacity of the submarine cables will increase in the future. If this transit proposal is approved, it might decrease the chance to export bandwidth to the neighbouring countries by using the capacity of those submarine cables,’ it added.

International terrestrial cable operators supply 60 per cent of the international bandwidth used in the country, Bangladesh Submarine Cables PLC supplies the remaining 40 per cent. Despite having usage capacity of 7,217 Gbps, the company’s bandwidth usage is only 2,343 Gbps currently.

Bandwidth is the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection in a given time. Higher bandwidth means faster downloads, smoother streaming, and better overall performance, making it crucial for handling modern internet activities and multiple devices.

‘If such connections are provided in favour of ITC operators, it will disrupt making the huge quantity of unused bandwidth of the BSCPLC usable,’ the letter further said.

India currently enjoys road transits through Bangladesh by four transhipment routes for Indian traders in Tripura and other north-eastern states, and a rail transit to carry goods and passengers across its territory.​

 

[Saif]

BTRC recalls bandwidth transit bid to India

The internet regulator is abandoning its plan to allow Bangladesh to be the transit point for bandwidth supply to India’s northeastern states on concerns that it could weaken the country’s potential to become a regional internet hub.

www.thedailystar.net

BTRC recalls bandwidth transit bid to India

Star visual

The internet regulator is abandoning its plan to allow Bangladesh to be the transit point for bandwidth supply to India's northeastern states on concerns that it could weaken the country's potential to become a regional internet hub.

Last year, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) sought the telecom ministry's permission after Summit Communications and Fiber@Home applied to supply bandwidth from Singapore via the Akhaura border to the northeastern region of India through Bharti Airtel.

Summit Communications's chairman is Muhammad Farid Khan, the younger brother of Awami League presidium member Faruk Khan, also a five-time member of parliament from the Gopalganj-1. Farid is also a close friend of Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son and ICT affairs adviser of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Fiber@Home was a major beneficiary during the AL regime from 2009 to 2024, ranking second to Summit Communications in terms of major government contracts and licences won.

Before the two international terrestrial cable operators sought the BTRC's approval, Bharti Airtel applied to the foreign ministry the previous year for permission to connect Agartala through Akhaura to Bangladesh's submarine cable landing stations in Cox's Bazar and Kuakata to reach Singapore.

Under this arrangement, Bangladesh would serve as the transit route -- enabling faster internet connection for India's northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland.

At present, the states, popularly known as the Seven Sisters of India, are connected to Singapore through submarine cables in Chennai using the neighbouring country's domestic fibre optic network.

The landing station in Chennai is about 5,500 kilometres away from the northeastern part -- a considerable distance that compromises the internet speed.

Due to the mountainous nature of the region, the maintenance of fibre optic networks and the installation of new networks are relatively difficult.

"The guidelines do not permit such 'transit' arrangements," Md Emdad ul Bari, chairman of BTRC, told The Daily Star on Thursday.

Subsequently, the internet regulator wrote to the telecom ministry last week to recall its earlier application.

The transit arrangement will also strengthen India's position as a dominant internet hub and weaken Bangladesh's potential to become a regional hub, according to a BTRC document.

It would also hinder the potential for Bangladesh to become a Point of Presence (PoP) for content delivery network (CDN) providers such as Meta, Google, Akamai and Amazon.

A PoP is a physical location, facility or data centre that acts as an interconnection point for various networks. It facilitates the exchange of data traffic between different network providers, internet service providers and CDNs. In short, it is a central hub where data highways from different regions converge.

Currently, CDNs such as Meta, Google, Akamai and Amazon have their PoPs in Indian cities such as Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai. Through transit connectivity provided by Summit and Fiber@Home, the Indian telecom operators would easily be able to offer internet services to the Seven Sisters.

Besides, the arrangement would obstruct Bangladesh's ability to provide internet services to parts of Myanmar and northwestern China through its own infrastructure.

Approximately 60 percent of the international bandwidth in Bangladesh is supplied by the seven ITCs like Summit Communications and Fiber@Home, while the remaining 40 percent is provided by Bangladesh Submarine Cables (BSC).

Despite BSC's bandwidth capacity of 7,217 Gbps, only 2,343 Gbps is currently being utilised.

Granting such connections to ITC operators despite BSC's adequate capacity and redundant cables would further increase ITC operators' bandwidth usage, undermining efforts to utilise BSC's unused bandwidth effectively.

"This arrangement would not harm Bangladesh," said Sumon Ahmed Sabir, chief technology officer at Fiber@Home, while acknowledging that the Seven Sisters region would undoubtedly benefit more.

Bangladesh, however, would also gain by earning foreign currency, while BSC, ITC and Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Network (NTTN) operators would share in the profits, he added.

Summit Communications did not respond to The Daily Star's request for comment.

"Ultimately, the bandwidth from India will end up in India, reducing Bangladesh to merely a transit point," said Aminul Hakim, president of the Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum.

At first glance, it may seem that Bangladesh would earn foreign currency from this arrangement.

However, since the two local ITC providers facilitating the transit already import bandwidth from Indian companies, there is a significant likelihood of service exchange, depriving the government of revenue, Hakim added.​

 

[Saif]

BTRC approves terms for auditing Teletalk

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has finalised key steps for auditing Teletalk, including setting goals, outlining the scope and detailing tasks for the process.

www.thedailystar.net

BTRC approves terms for auditing Teletalk

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has finalised key steps for auditing Teletalk, including setting goals, outlining the scope and detailing tasks for the process.

The telecom regulator recently approved the revised terms of reference (TOR), scope of service, expression of interest (EOI), and request for proposal (RFP) for appointing an auditor to conduct the operator's procedure and system audit.

The approval was granted during a recent commission meeting, following recommendations from the information system audit coordination committee, which reviewed and refined the documents.

For the first time, Teletalk, the only state-owned mobile network operator, will face scrutiny over operational challenges and financial liabilities.

According to the BTRC, Teletalk owes the telecom regulator about Tk 1,849 crore in unpaid licensing fees, revenue sharing, spectrum fees and contributions to the Social Obligation Fund.

In April 2024, a six-member committee was formed to draft the TOR, EoI and RFP in compliance with Public Procurement Rules 2008 and other government regulations.

The documents were ultimately finalised after a series of meetings and revisions.

This audit initiative aims to assess and enhance the operational transparency and efficiency of Teletalk, ensuring better compliance with regulatory standards, according to an official of the BTRC.

The telecom regulator has also decided to carry out information system audits on Grameenphone and Robi Axiata in the years since 2015, and form committees to start the process of appointing auditors.

The decision to carry out the audits comes even though the claims of the first audits into the operators have not been settled yet.

The telecom regulator ran separate audits on the two operators from their inception to December 2014 and claimed Tk 12,579 crore from Grameenphone and Tk 867 crore from Robi.

The claims include the amounts for unpaid annual spectrum fees, value-added tax and revenue sharing. However, both operators disputed the sum and claimed that they did not evade any taxes.

The dispute triggered a legal battle between the operators and the BTRC, with the companies filing lawsuits in 2019.

Based on the audit of Grameenphone from 1997 to 2014, the BTRC sent a demand notice in April 2019, asking it to clear the payments.

Later, Grameenphone filed a case before the district court against the claim. The Supreme Court in November that year ordered the operator to give Tk 2,000 crore in three months to the commission.

Afterward, the appellate division directed the largest mobile network operator in the country to deposit Tk 1,000 crore by February 2020 and another Tk 1,000 crore by May 2020. Grameenphone complied.

Of the Tk 12,579 crore, the operator has not yet cleared the more than Tk 6,100 crore slapped as late fees.

Additionally, as of April this year, it paid more than Tk 2,392 crore out of Tk 4,085 crore owed to the National Board of Revenue.

Out of Tk 867 crore, Robi, the second-largest operator of Bangladesh, paid Tk 138 crore in five instalments by May 2020 to comply with the order of the High Court Division.

The telecom regulator also conducted audits on Banglalink from 1996 to 2019 and asked the operator to pay more than Tk 820 crore last year.

It has already paid a principal amount of Tk 390 crore in instalments, according to an official of the operator.

Banglalink is trying to mutually resolve the BTRC's audit outcome while Grameenphone has already initiated negotiations regarding late fees as both parties seek an out-of-court settlement on the matter.​

 

[Saif]

Stakeholders outraged by proposed tax hike on mobile phone use

If implemented, total tax burden on mobile phone users will be around 56.3%

www.thedailystar.net

Stakeholders outraged by proposed tax hike on mobile phone use
If implemented, total tax burden on mobile phone users will be around 56.3%

The government's move to raise the supplementary duty (SD) on mobile talk time and internet services has sparked outrage among mobile operators, consumers, and digital service providers.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) is all set to increase the SD from 20 percent to 23 percent, just six months after increasing it from 15 percent to 20 percent, which experts view as a constraint for the industry.

Currently, customers pay Tk 138 for Tk 100 worth of mobile voice or internet services, factoring in 15 percent VAT, 20 percent SD, and a 1 percent surcharge.

When additional taxes, such as revenue sharing and minimum taxes, are included, the total tax burden surpasses 54 percent, one of the highest in the world, according to industry experts.

If implemented, the proposed hike will raise this figure to around 56.3 percent, further straining consumers and the industry.

Leading stakeholders of the telecom industry have criticized the 3-percentage-point supplementary duty hike.

The secretary general of the Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh, Lt Col Mohammad Zulfikar (retd), believes that further tax increases, amid the country's ongoing economic challenges, will undoubtedly harm both the mobile industry and its subscribers.

"The sector is already burdened with heavy taxes and duties. In recent months, nearly six million subscribers have left the network, signalling the sector's declining growth. This decision could severely impact the government's revenue generation from the sector."

"We urge the authorities to reconsider the consequences and avoid imposing such burdens."

Bdjobs CEO Fahim Mashroor said that mobile phone users in Bangladesh already face the highest tax burden among all Asian countries.

The additional 3 percentage-point hike in tax will further escalate data costs for 90 percent of the country's internet users, potentially tarnishing the government's pro-youth image, he said.

"At the recent D8 Summit, the chief adviser highlighted the transformative role of the internet and AI in education and healthcare. But certain bureaucrats within the NBR seem disconnected from this progressive vision."

The rising internet prices may provoke discontent among Generation Z, who have previously used the internet to challenge restrictive governance, he added.

"This decision risks alienating a key demographic and fueling further unrest."

Pathao CEO Fahim Ahmed said the decision to raise supplementary duty on mobile top-ups is short-sighted.

Bangladesh already has the highest telecom taxes in the region, which limits internet adoption, he said.

"As the largest consumer tech platform in the country, we have observed how high costs constrain our market potential to just a fraction of what it could be."

The decision made by the interim government — which was expected to introduce reforms after taking charge six months ago — is taking us in the opposite direction, he said.

"We urgently call for its reversal."

Banglalink Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman opined that the increased supplementary duty would raise talk time expenses, further reducing affordability for customers already struggling with inflation.

Telecom services have been instrumental in driving the country's economic growth and fostering digital inclusion, he said.

"The supplementary duty was increased just a few months ago, creating challenges for both the industry and its users. This move risks widening the digital divide, hindering sector growth, and reducing government revenue."

"We strongly urge the government to reconsider this decision to ensure sustained economic progress and the advancement of digital inclusion," he said.

Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers' Association President Mohiuddin Ahmed views the NBR's actions as a reflection of a troubling authoritarian approach.

"Such reckless decisions bear the hallmarks of a bygone fascist regime. With 48 percent of the population still without internet access, this excessive taxation will only exacerbate the digital divide," he said.

Unless the government abandons this irrational and oppressive policy, citizens and consumer groups will have no choice but to take to the streets, Ahmed said.

"It is really unfortunate to see that the taxation regime for the telecom sector continues to defy rational thinking," Robi Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer Shahed Alam said.

While there are sustained calls for price reductions, the prospect of additional tax burdens on consumers sends a contradictory and confusing message, he said.

"Time and again, we have seen that increasing consumer tax burdens in the telecom sector leads to reduced spending by mobile phone users. This, in turn, negatively impacts the financial health of mobile phone operators and decreases government revenue."

While mobile operators face financial struggles, expectations regarding service quality continue to rise, he said.

"How can operators invest in next-generation networks if we are being systematically weakened by a taxation regime that clearly lacks purpose and direction?" he questioned.

Grameenphone's Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tanveer Mohammad said: "At a time when the economy is still recovering and national inflation remains above 10 percent, this additional burden will pose significant challenges for consumers already struggling with daily expenses."

"If the SD is increased, it will be the second time in the last seven months."

"It was increased by 5 percent in June 2024, and now, if an additional 3 percent is imposed, as reported in the media, it will result in a 9.2 percentage point increase in indirect taxes on customers within just seven months," he said.

"For every Tk 100 spent on mobile usage, customers will now have to pay Tk 142.45 (inclusive of VAT, SD, and SC), compared to Tk 133.25 before the last budget. As an industry committed to fostering digital inclusion, we believe this move will hinder progress and widen the digital divide."

"We urge the government to reconsider this decision in the interest of customers and to support the broader goal of building a digitally inclusive society."​

 

[Saif]

BTRC tightens rules for telcos to improve services

The telecom regulator has drafted stricter quality of service (QoS) benchmarks for mobile operators to better protect users’ interests though the companies fared badly in previous metrics.

www.thedailystar.net

BTRC tightens rules for telcos to improve services

The telecom regulator has drafted stricter quality of service (QoS) benchmarks for mobile operators to better protect users' interests though the companies fared badly in previous metrics.

For the first time, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has also included transmission networks and broadband service providers under the QoS framework.

Key changes in the draft include lowering the call drop rate ceiling from 2 percent to 1 percent and raising the call setup success rate standard from 97 percent to 98 percent. The voice call setup time has also been tightened from 8 seconds to 7 seconds. Additionally, a new benchmark has been introduced for call setup time in Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE) and beyond, setting the limit at no more than 3 seconds.

VoLTE is a technology that enables high-quality voice calls over 4G LTE networks instead of traditional voice networks. It offers faster call setup, clearer audio quality, and the ability to use voice and data services simultaneously, enhancing overall mobile communication efficiency and user experience.

While the standard for mobile internet download speed remains unchanged, the upload speed requirement has been increased from 2 Mbps to 4 Mbps. Also, for the first time, mobile data latency has been capped at under 50 milliseconds, enhancing real-time communication quality.

In the broadband sector, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must now ensure 75 percent of the subscribed download speed and 50 percent of the upload speed.

According to the draft regulation, beyond safeguarding subscriber interests, the updated standards aim to create an environment that encourages competition, drives innovation, and fosters trust among stakeholders. The regulatory objectives also aim to improve subscribers' satisfaction, uphold service quality, ensure consumer protection, promote competition, and enhance trust within the telecommunications sector in Bangladesh.

Additionally, the BTRC may verify and assess the performance of services to determine whether service providers comply with the defined benchmarks for QoS parameters outlined in these regulations. This assessment may occur randomly or in response to complaints about QoS issues in specific zones or areas. It can be conducted through inspections, drive tests, sample tests, or other measurement methods by officers, employees, or agencies appointed by the BTRC or jointly with service providers.

The BTRC may also instruct service providers to conduct additional specialised QoS assessment tests, surveys, and submit subsequent reports as deemed necessary. Any service provider that fails to maintain the QoS standards, submit the required reports, or comply with any provisions outlined in these regulations shall be liable for breaching these regulations. The submission of inaccurate, misleading, or incomplete information shall also be deemed a violation. Breaching any of these regulations shall constitute an offence, and the person responsible shall be liable for administrative fines under the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulation Act, 2001.

Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, a telecom expert, said the draft guideline is a significant step toward enhancing the telecommunication services landscape in Bangladesh. With fine-tuning and an expanded scope, it has the potential to align Bangladesh's QoS framework with global standards, fostering consumer trust and driving competitive growth in the sector.

"While the regulation accounts for 4G, VoLTE, and fixed internet, provisions for satellite broadband (e.g., Starlink) and IoT connectivity should be added, given their growing relevance in the evolving telecommunications ecosystem," he added. Hussain noted this draft guideline aligns with ITU standards and offers actionable insights to further enhance the customer experience.

Although the BTRC has implemented more stringent regulations, mobile operators are failing to even maintain the current standards. Hossain Sadat, head of public and regulatory affairs at Grameenphone, said they were included in the consultation process and received a new version of the QoS regulation.

"We are assessing this version and will provide our response accordingly. We look forward to continuing the consultation process to be able to conclude on an industry-aligned QoS regulation, making it rational and sustainable," he said.

Local mobile operators performed poorly in the telecom regulator's latest drive test to assess service quality, reinforcing users' claims of experiencing substandard services. The drive tests were conducted between February 14 and June 5 last year across Dhaka city corporations, Narayanganj, Keraniganj, and Savar upazilas with the BTRC's newly acquired system from Germany, purchased for 1.5 million euros.

Robi performed the best, failing in only five key performance indicators (KPIs) out of 40 across four areas. Market leader Grameenphone failed in six KPIs, Banglalink in 14, and Teletalk in a staggering 26, according to the test results.

For internet services, only state-owned Teletalk failed to meet the BTRC's benchmarks, with Robi performing the best. However, officials of the operators have expressed disagreement with the findings, claiming that the BTRC's results do not accurately reflect the network's performance and could lead to public confusion.​

 

[Saif]

5G implementation: spectrum allocation & infrastructure in Bangladesh

Unprecedented improvements in speed, connectivity, and digital innovation are anticipated with the introduction of 5G technology. Given the potential for economic transformation that 5G technology holds, nations are vying to build strong 5G networks. Bangladesh, a fast-developing country aspiring f

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

5G implementation: spectrum allocation & infrastructure in Bangladesh
Yemad Fayed Ahmed
Published :
Jan 16, 2025 21:56
Updated :
Jan 16, 2025 21:56

Unprecedented improvements in speed, connectivity, and digital innovation are anticipated with the introduction of 5G technology. Given the potential for economic transformation that 5G technology holds, nations are vying to build strong 5G networks. Bangladesh, a fast-developing country aspiring for digital inclusivity, has started the rollout of 5G. However, there are many obstacles in the way of obtaining extensive 5G coverage, chief among them being infrastructure constraints, customer preparedness, and delays in spectrum allocation. This article explores these challenges, assesses the consequences for the country's digital future, and contrasts Bangladesh's advancements with those of its neighbour, India.

With more than 190 million mobile users and over 127 million internet subscribers as of 2024, Bangladesh has a sizable user base. Although these numbers demonstrate the nation's digital potential, the adoption of cutting-edge technology like 5G exposes hidden difficulties. By 2025, smartphone adoption is expected to have increased to 63 per cent from 47 per cent in 2024. However, 5G-enabled handsets only make up 3.4 per cent of all mobile shipments, suggesting that consumers are not yet fully prepared for the new technology.

As of 2024, 55 per cent of mobile customers in Bangladesh are utilising 4G services, indicating a rather delayed deployment of 4G networks. Although this is an improvement above the 37 per cent in 2020, it still highlights how slowly technology is changing. Concerns regarding Bangladesh's capacity to stay competitive in the digital race are raised by the estimated 6 per cent 5G coverage by 2025, which stands in sharp contrast to the swift developments observed in nearby nations.

Spectrum allocation delays are one of the main obstacles to Bangladesh's 5G deployment. Specific frequency bands for 5G have been identified by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). However, providing guidelines and licenses has proven to be extremely difficult. Although the March 2022 spectrum auction was a significant advancement, regulatory obstacles have postponed the commercial implementation of 5G services.

There are wider ramifications for the country's digital ecosystem from these delays. Telecom providers cannot invest in the infrastructure needed for 5G deployment if they do not have timely access to the relevant spectrum. The problem is made worse by the absence of precise regulatory norms, which leaves stakeholders in the dark and impedes advancement.

Another major obstacle to the successful rollout of 5G in Bangladesh is the country's current telecommunications infrastructure. With noticeable gaps in rural areas, the network mostly supports 4G services. Service quality is still uneven even in cities, indicating the need for significant improvements to meet 5G technology's high-speed, low-latency requirements.

Connectivity in rural areas presents a special difficulty. The infrastructure required for even basic mobile services is sometimes lacking in rural areas, despite housing a significant section of the population. In addition to impeding the rollout of 5G, this digital gap also restricts the possibilities for equitable economic growth and digital transformation.

Customer preparedness is another important consideration in the deployment of 5G. Only 3-4 per cent of Bangladeshi mobile subscribers now own handsets that support 5G. This low percentage is indicative of the larger problem of accessibility and affordability. A sizable section of the population cannot afford the high prices of 5G-compatible devices and data subscriptions, rendering the technology unaffordable.

Furthermore, consumers are not well-informed about the advantages of 5G. In Bangladesh, advanced applications like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions are still mostly untapped. The adoption of 5G is further slowed by this lack of demand, which leads to a situation where operators are reluctant to invest in 5G infrastructure in the absence of a sizable user base.

India is a helpful reference point for comprehending the prospects and difficulties associated with the deployment of 5G. India's digital ecosystem is significantly more developed than Bangladesh's, with over 1 billion mobile users and an estimated 84 per cent smartphone penetration rate by 2025. Since late 2021, 5G services have been rapidly deployed in India, highlighting the significance of aggressive legislation and strong infrastructure.

India's success in implementing 5G is a result of several things. Telecom providers now operate in a favourable environment thanks to the government's prompt spectrum allotment and clear regulations. India has a ready market for 5G services because of its greater smartphone penetration rate. Finally, the growth of digital infrastructure, especially in rural regions, has been made possible by solid public-private partnerships.

India has excellent teachings that Bangladesh can learn from. Overcoming the obstacles of 5G deployment requires putting a high priority on regulatory changes, encouraging cooperation between the public and private sectors, and funding consumer education.

The digital economy of Bangladesh will be significantly impacted by the successful rollout of 5G technology. 5G has the potential to revolutionise a number of industries, from improving telemedicine and e-commerce to facilitating smart cities and sophisticated manufacturing. However, overcoming the aforementioned obstacles is necessary to achieve these advantages.

Bangladesh must give the development of digital infrastructure in rural areas top priority in order to guarantee inclusive growth. In order to close the digital divide and give rural populations access to 5G technologies, public-private collaborations can be extremely important.

Accelerated 5G implementation requires clear regulatory standards and timely spectrum allocation. To remove obstacles and foster an atmosphere that encourages investment in 5G networks, policymakers must interact with stakeholders.

Adoption can only be accelerated by informing customers about the advantages of 5G and lowering the cost of equipment. Together with focused awareness campaigns, subsidies for 5G-compatible devices and data plans can aid in removing these obstacles.

Lastly, maximising the potential of 5G requires promoting cooperation between the public sector, private sector, and academic institutions. Adoption of 5G can be accelerated and economic revolution can be fueled by creative solutions catered to Bangladesh's particular demands.

On its path to digital transformation, Bangladesh is at a turning point. Even though infrastructural constraints, customer preparedness, and spectrum allotment present formidable obstacles, they are not insurmountable. Bangladesh can unleash the enormous potential of this game-changing technology by learning from regional achievements and implementing 5G holistically.

Although there may be challenges along the way to 5G, the benefits will make the effort worthwhile. Bangladesh can establish itself as a leader in digital innovation and clear the path for a better, more connected future with careful planning, cooperation, and investment.

The writer is a seasoned Public Relations professional.​

 

[Saif]

Need for better and cheaper telecom services

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC)'s introduction of stricter Quality of Service (QoS) standards is a crucial step towards improving the services provided by mobile phone operators and internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh. The draft regulation titled BTRC Quali

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Need for better and cheaper telecom services
FE
Published :
Jan 19, 2025 22:13
Updated :
Jan 19, 2025 22:13

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC)'s introduction of stricter Quality of Service (QoS) standards is a crucial step towards improving the services provided by mobile phone operators and internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh. The draft regulation titled BTRC Quality of Service Regulations, 2024 comes after years of complaints against poor service rendered by mobile phone operators. Despite the massive boom in the number of mobile phone and internet users over the decades, the industry has fallen far short of meeting consumer expectations. From high call rates to frequent call drops and from poor network coverage to slow internet speeds, the list of subpar services is long. In recent years call drops have become a routine affair, prompting an increasing number of users to vent their frustration and demand compensation for unexpected dropped calls. The BTRC's proposal to enforce a new QoS framework, equipped with stringent penalties for non-compliance, is a welcome step towards addressing these concerns.

The draft regulation introduces several key changes, including a reduction in the allowable call drop rate from 2.0 per cent to 1.0 per cent and a more demanding call setup time, from eight seconds to seven seconds. For more advanced services like Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE), the benchmark time has been set at three seconds for faster, clearer voice calls. Additionally, the cap on mobile data latency has been tightened to 50 milliseconds, marking a critical improvement in real-time communication quality. Another notable improvement is the emphasis on mobile internet speed, with the required upload speed doubled to 4Mbps. Once effectively implemented, the upgrading will not only enhance the user experience for individuals and businesses relying on mobile data but also put pressure on telecom operators to invest in infrastructure improvements. The new rules extend beyond just mobile services to broadband connections, where ISPs will now be required to deliver 75 per cent of the subscribed download speed and 50 per cent of the upload speed, ensuring that users get what they pay for.

While these changes are promising, it is important to recognise the challenges that lie ahead. The BTRC will need to ensure rigorous enforcement of these new regulations. Regular inspection, drive tests and random sample measurements will be necessary to monitor compliance. Non-compliance, including the submission of inaccurate information or failure to meet required standard, will result in penalties in order to serve as a deterrent to errant operators. The stakeholders and the public have until February 15 to provide feedback on the draft regulation.

An indispensable tool for everyday communication, mobile phone has facilitated the growth of a burgeoning digital economy, encompassing mobile money transactions, e-commerce, e-agriculture, and a wide array of app-based services. To ensure continued growth and accessibility, it is crucial to ensuring quality and affordable services. To this end, a rational tax and duty structure could also play a vital role. Currently, when a mobile phone user recharges with Tk 100, approximately Tk 28 is remitted to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) as taxes. In total, mobile network operators contribute over Tk 54 from every Tk 100 of revenue to the government in the form of taxes and fees. This significant tax burden is a major contributing factor to the high call rates and internet charges faced by consumers. Therefore, a review of the current tax structure is needed to make telecommunication services affordable. An improved and affordable cellular service will not only enhance the user experience but also contribute significantly to the country's economic and social development by facilitating greater access to information, education, and digital opportunities.​