VAT may Increase on Domestically Manufactured Mobile Phones

The Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer of Robi, has called for a reduction in SIM tax as a means to encourage future investments in telecommunication infrastructure. In response to the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 presented by Finance Minister. He emphasized the need for a decrease in the minimum turnover tax rate imposed on listed telecom companies.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has unveiled a ten-year roadmap for wireless spectrum management and allocation. The draft roadmap, presented during a commission meeting, aims to generate significant revenue of around 100 lakh crore taka through the allocation of wireless waves over the next decade.

A recent survey conducted by the BTRC reveals that mobile internet users in Bangladesh prioritize the establishment of a fixed floor price for data, reduction in the number of packages, and the availability of flexible plans with data rollover. The survey findings indicate that 54.9% of participants desire mobile operators to offer a maximum of 40 to 45 data plans, a significant decrease from the current 95 packages. Additionally, 23.2% and 14% of respondents suggest that the number of packages should range from 71 to 85 and 51 to 60, respectively.

The country's mobile manufacturing sector is facing significant hurdles, including difficulties in obtaining letters of credit (LCs), plummeting sales, and the rise of the grey market, according to the vice president of the Mobile Phone Industry Owners' Association of Bangladesh. The shortage of US dollars has made it challenging to open LCs, leading to a decline in manufacturing. Mobile sales have dropped by over 40% in the first quarter of 2023, exacerbating the situation.

Infinix has launched the HOT 30 smartphone in Bangladesh, offering a unique feature that allows users to utilize both Wi-Fi and mobile data simultaneously for seamless gaming. The smartphone utilizes link-booming network optimization technology, enabling the concurrent use of Wi-Fi and data to ensure a stable connection during critical gaming moments. With the combined power of Wi-Fi and data channels, users can enjoy lag-free video streaming and gaming experiences, even on weak networks.

Grameenphone has introduced Platform SHE 4.0, the latest chapter of its mentorship program. The program aims to empower promising female candidates through mentorship and support. A launching ceremony marked the beginning of this transformative journey. Platform SHE 4.0 has selected 15 exceptional female talents within Grameenphone as mentors. These mentors have been thoughtfully paired with outstanding female mentees from 11 different universities across the country. Rigorous selection ensured the participation of the most talented and hard-working young women.