Bangladesh Telecom Policy Review: Connectivity Gains and Disputed Guidelines

Claim 1 Rehan Asif Asad said the current administration has implemented a comprehensive strategy to enhance Bangladesh's digital capabilities by emphasizing 'connectivity'.

Evidence As the Prime Minister’s adviser on Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Science, Asad stated at a TRNB seminar that connectivity is the government’s top priority, aiming to link 90 percent of the population with 5G. He described telecom and ICT as the foundation for national development, with an agenda focused on connectivity, investment, and digital sovereignty.

Verdict Mostly true.

Analysis Multiple news reports and Asad’s own remarks confirm that the administration presents connectivity as a core, comprehensive part of its digital‑advancement plan. No evidence contradicts the assertion that such a strategy exists.

Claim 2 Bangladesh lags significantly in mobile internet and broadband usage, requiring robust connectivity and collaboration among service providers and stakeholders to address this deficiency.

Evidence Asad also noted at the same seminar that Bangladesh still lags significantly in mobile internet and broadband use, urging robust connectivity and effective collaboration. Journalist Masud Kamal observed that while mobile internet is accessible in urban areas, no operator’s network functions adequately in rural regions, though he experiences reliable broadband in both settings.

Verdict Mostly true.

Analysis The adviser’s statement and the journalist’s on‑the‑ground observation align, showing a recognized gap in mobile internet, especially outside cities, and a shared call for improved infrastructure and stakeholder cooperation.

Claim 3 The network infrastructure guidelines implemented during the interim government's period favored foreign‑owned enterprises, granting them licenses across all tiers while significantly restricting the operational scope for local entrepreneurs, posing a threat to domestic businesses.

Evidence IT expert Sumon Ahmed Sabir claimed the interim guidelines gave foreign companies licenses across all tiers and limited local entrepreneurs, threatening domestic firms. BTRC chairman Maj Gen Md Emdad Ul Bari (retd) countered that the policy was developed with stakeholder input over the past year and aimed to shift from voice to data services, not to favor any group.

Verdict Mostly false.

Analysis Direct contradiction exists between the expert’s claim of foreign favoritism and the regulator’s assertion of inclusive consultation and a neutral strategic goal. Because the two sides disagree on both process and impact, the allegation of systematic bias against local businesses lacks clear support.

What to watch next: How the upcoming policy review will reshape licensing rules and whether the government’s 5G rollout targets will reduce the urban‑rural mobile‑internet gap.