A five-day nationwide internet blackout has cost e-commerce businesses in Bangladesh at least Tk 600 million, severely impacting operations from inventory tracking to deliveries amid a curfew. Small businesses, particularly those operating through Facebook pages, were the hardest hit, affecting an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 entrepreneurs. The blackout, triggered by an attack on a data center, halted e-commerce and f-commerce. While broadband services resumed on Wednesday, mobile internet remained unavailable, with fixed-line users facing slow speeds.
E-commerce leaders predict total losses could reach Tk 12 billion. Perishable items were especially problematic, with many unable to be stored. Delivery personnel, paid per delivery, also suffered significantly. Major retailers like Shwapno reported a 30% sales drop, losing Tk 20 million, while Chaldal saw daily sales of Tk 8 million halted.
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