Dhaka:Bangladesh's mobile telecom industry leaders have urged the government to further rationalise spectrum renewal costs and associated terms to ensure sustained investment in digital infrastructure, service quality, and nationwide connectivity.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the current proposed spectrum valuation is significantly higher than international and Asia-Pacific market norms, failing to represent the prevailing benchmark for renewal when assessed against sector revenues and market realities.
The calls were made during a press meet at the office of the Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) in Banani, where the upcoming spectrum renewal was discussed. Speakers at the event included Banglalink Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman, Grameenphone Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tanveer Mohammad, and Robi Axiata Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer Shahed Alam, with AMTOB Secretary General Lt Col Mohammad Zulfikar (retd) moderating.
Industry leaders acknowledged the regulator's engagement with stakeholders and recognised efforts made during the spectrum renewal process. They noted that independent international studies indicate spectrum-related costs in Bangladesh account for a larger share of operators' revenues than Asia-Pacific and global averages, adding pressure to a sector already facing stagnant revenues, low ARPU growth, rising operating costs, and continuous network investment needs.
Taimur Rahman emphasized the essential role of spectrum for service quality, network capacity, and nationwide coverage, citing growing spectrum demand as Bangladesh transitions from voice to data without a proportional increase in operators' revenues. He advocated for spectrum pricing that reflects current realities, with significantly lower unit prices to enable continued investment in spectrum acquisition, network expansion, and service quality.
Tanveer Mohammad expressed gratitude towards BTRC for their structured approach and constructive dialogues with telecom operators. Shahed Alam highlighted the importance of assessing spectrum affordability considering industry revenues, investment capacity, and the need for continued network expansion. He called for a pragmatic approach supporting both long-term sector sustainability and the country's digital ambitions.