Dhaka: Prime Minister’s Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Rehan Asif Asad today said data and connectivity are critical to Bangladesh’s future, stressing the need for quality networks and affordable data-enabled devices to ensure people can fully benefit from the telecommunications sector. “Without data, without connectivity, this industry means nothing. And without proper data connectivity, we will not get the best out of this industry,” he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rehan made the remarks at the “Powering the Future: Robi Completes Dhaka Modernisation” event at Robi Corporate Office. Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam and Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Major General Md Emdad Ul Bari (Retd.) were also present.
Rehan emphasized that getting the best out of the telecommunications industry requires work on both network and device fronts. He appreciated the efforts being made to develop networks, stating that data evolution and network upgrades are a continuous journey. “I’m sincerely thankful for the effort that you guys (Robi) have taken on the network side, and you both say this is just the beginning of the journey: data evolution and network upgrade, it never ends,” he expressed.
Highlighting Dhaka’s significance, Rehan pointed out that although the capital accounts for only 4 percent geographically, its role is crucial from both population and economic perspectives. He noted the complexity and dynamics of managing nearly 5,000 sites in Dhaka involving spectrum management, noise management, backhaul, and antenna tilting.
Rehan also addressed the call-drop issues experienced on the expressway, mentioning complaints received when the Prime Minister encountered call drops while exiting the expressway. He stressed the importance of suitable devices in addition to network development, noting that around 50 percent of mobile phone users in Bangladesh still use feature phones.
To address this, Rehan mentioned government initiatives to lower mobile device costs by reducing import taxes on raw materials, with duties previously ranging from 26 to 33 percent now zeroed out or reduced to between 2 and 5 percent. This move aims to provide people with better devices at cheaper prices.
Rehan revealed that local mobile manufacturers proposed producing an Android-based, data-driven smartphone for $50 to $60. They also requested support for including mobile phones in the EMI programme and encouraging private banks to offer installment plans.
He urged the mobile industry to help convert feature-phone users into data users, assuring government support. Rehan also suggested bundling AI platform tokens with mobile data packages to equip the next generation with tools needed for global competition. He cited examples from countries like South Korea, Japan, and China, where mobile companies have started bundling AI platform tokens.
Rehan emphasized that modernising networks, making affordable data-enabled devices available, and providing access to digital tools should be viewed as a continuous journey. The government has faced and addressed various challenges over the past six months and remains committed to overcoming future challenges through teamwork and collaboration.