Dhaka: The government is gearing up to launch the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) on December 16 as a strategic measure to combat the influx of smuggled, cloned, refurbished, and used foreign mobile phones. The initiative also aims to prevent mobile phone theft and enhance public safety by addressing digital crimes associated with online gambling, mobile banking, and mobile financial services.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, originally, all unregistered mobile phones were required to be registered by December 16. However, after three days of discussions with mobile industry stakeholders, the government has decided to extend the registration deadline in response to their concerns. Users now have until March 15, 2026, to register any unregistered mobile devices.
Currently, there are no restrictions on importing mobile phones. The Posts and Telecommunications Division is set to inform the Ministry of Commerce and other pertinent authorities about which models and age of devices may be imported. Importers will need to notify the appropriate government agencies before proceeding with any shipments. All parties have been instructed to provide written updates to the Department of Posts and Telecommunications by tomorrow.
Ongoing discussions with the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Ministry of Commerce are focusing on potential revisions to mobile phone import duties. The Posts and Telecommunications Division is leading the coordination efforts, with importers and manufacturers agreeing to collectively submit written recommendations to the government.
Authorities have called on all parties to refrain from activities that could disrupt the country’s law and order situation following this decision.