BTRC

New telecom policy aims to end syndicates, boost 5G, cheaper internet

Bangladesh’s telecom system, long criticised for inefficiency and corruption, is undergoing a major overhaul under the proposed ‘Telecom Network and Licensing Reform Policy 2025’. 

Draft telecom policy keeps door open for monopoly

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission’s (BTRC) draft policy to reform its complex licensing regime arrives with bold promises — streamlining processes, encouraging competition, and attracting foreign investment.

BTRC approves licence for Starlink

This is the swiftest recommendation from the BTRC for any such licence, according to a BTRC official.

BTRC dismantles IGW cartel

The telecom regulator has revoked a cartel that controlled the international incoming call market in Bangladesh since 2015.

BTRC limits bandwidth imports from India

The move comes through an amendment to the International Internet Gateway (IIG) guidelines, according to BTRC documents.  

29 IIG operators still owe Tk 205cr to BTRC

A total of 29 international internet gateway (IIG) service providers in Bangladesh still owe the country’s telecom regulator about Tk 205 crore collectively even though the monthlong window to clear their dues has long passed.

BTRC’s bid to regain independence

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission has come up with a draft ordinance that would bring sweeping changes to the law, paving the way for the telecom regulator to win back its independence taken away by the previous regime through amendments.

BTRC blocks call services of three IGW operators

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) recently ordered the suspension of all voice call services provided by three International Gateway (IGW) operators for breaching rules.

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.

November 5, 2024
November 5, 2024

BTRC to issue more NTTN licences if needed

Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) will issue more Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Network (NTTN) licences if services to customers are compromised as the regulator prioritises service quality, said BTRC Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari yesterday.

October 3, 2024
October 3, 2024

Telcos’ service falls short of BTRC standard

Mobile operators performed poorly in the telecom regulator’s latest drive test to assess service quality, reinforcing users’ claims of experiencing substandard service.

September 10, 2024
September 10, 2024

Emdad ul Bari appointed as BTRC chairman

Md Emdad ul Bari has been appointed chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC)

September 3, 2024
September 3, 2024

BTRC’s curious U-turn on Summit Communications

The telecom regulator has walked back on its decision just two months ago to allow Summit Communications to transfer its shares without any fee, in a development that raises questions about the extent of benefits the company received during the 15 years of the previous Awami League government.

July 16, 2024
July 16, 2024

Mobile phone operators join race to capture broadband market

The country’s three private mobile network operators are racing to grab a share of the rapidly expanding broadband market by offering fixed wireless access (FWA) services, which give users Wi-Fi connections without cables.

July 3, 2024
July 3, 2024

Complaints bring no solutions for most Teletalk users

A staggering majority of customers of state-run telecom operator Teletalk are getting no solutions even after logging complaints through the call centre of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).

June 12, 2024
June 12, 2024

Implement SMP regulations to enhance competition in telecom industry

Monopolistic accumulation of market power, especially in terms of price-setting capability, may cause an increase in price and deterioration of quality of service as well as hamper innovation and competition

June 6, 2024
June 6, 2024

‘New law may dent BTRC’s autonomy’

The government will have the power to set the terms of removal and resignation of the commissioners of the telecom regulator, according to a draft law.

April 9, 2024
April 9, 2024

BTRC to open fresh audits into GP, Robi

The decision to carry out the audits comes although the claims of the first audits into the operators haven’t been settled yet.

April 1, 2024
April 1, 2024

BTRC and 'Sisimpur' join forces to promote safe internet practices for children

To foster a safer online environment for children, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has teamed up with Sesame Workshop Bangladesh (SWB), the creators of the beloved children's educational show “Sisimpur”. The collaboration aims to raise awareness about the safe use of the internet for educational purposes and to promote internet safety among children and parents alike.