Robi’s profit declined due to the Forex crisis

ADN Telecom's decision to establish manufacturing facilities for telecommunication devices locally in Bangladesh reflects a strategic move towards reducing import dependency and promoting domestic production in the telecommunications sector. By availing land at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Hi-Tech Park in Sylhet, the company aims to leverage the benefits of a specialized industrial zone to develop facilities of international standards.

Despite progress made by individual operators, Bangladesh has slipped six positions to 112th out of 148 countries in mobile internet speed performance, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for March. This decline from the previous rank of 106th highlights ongoing challenges in achieving faster internet speeds nationwide.

The median download speed in Bangladesh is reported at 24.59 Mbps, a slight improvement from the previous 24.19 Mbps. Meanwhile, Qatar claims the top spot globally with a median download speed of 313.30 Mbps.

Grameenphone recently announced a partnership with Monico Pharma Limited, providing mobility services, ICT, and IoT solutions to the latter's corporate customers. Under the agreement, Monico Pharma's clients can access Grameenphone's services nationwide. Grameenphone's Chief Business Officer highlighted the role of ICT solutions in enhancing Monico Pharma's productivity.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has decided to conduct information system audits into Grameenphone and Robi Axiata, dating back to 2015, and has formed committees to initiate the process of appointing auditors. The objective of these audits is to ensure that the equipment and processes within these telecom operators adhere to the commission's guidelines, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations, including revenue verification to ensure the government receives its rightful share.

Robi has witnessed a remarkable improvement in its data speed, with a 130% increase, and voice quality, with a 50% enhancement, over the past year. This significant enhancement in data speed is indicative of Robi's proactive measures to bolster its network infrastructure, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction.

In a recent round table meeting organized by the Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) and the Telecom and Technology Reporters Network Bangladesh (TRNB), mobile operators highlighted concerns regarding the high tax rates imposed on mobile phone services in Bangladesh.