Mobile phone traders today formed a human chain in Dhaka, demanding a postponement of the implementation of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system and the release of colleagues arrested over protests against the initiative.
The demonstration was held in the Gulistan area, where protesters also called for permission to import and sell used mobile phones.
“In Bangladesh, a large market for used phones has already emerged, similar to the reconditioned car market. The government must allow us to import used phones legally,” said Shamim Mollah, senior vice-president of the Bangladesh Mobile Business Community, which represents thousands of traders involved in the sale of unofficial handsets.
The traders further demanded the withdrawal of cases filed by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) against handset traders, the release of those detained in connection with vandalism at the BTRC office, a reduction of total taxes on mobile phone imports to 10–12 percent, and simplification of the handset import process.
The government launched the NEIR system on January 1, alongside measures to reduce duties on legally imported mobile phones and to allow previously illegal handsets to be brought under a legal framework.
On the same day, a group of people attacked the BTRC office, leading to the arrest of 45 individuals. Fresh protests later in January saw police disperse demonstrators from Karwan Bazar and other areas using batons, sound grenades, and tear gas.
Despite the unrest, the government has reiterated its decision to continue with the NEIR rollout.
According to a National Board of Revenue notification issued today, customs duty on imported finished mobile phones has been cut to 10 percent from 25 percent.
Meanwhile, the Mobile Phone Industry Owners Association of Bangladesh, which represents local manufacturers, welcomed the implementation of NEIR, calling it a major step towards consumer protection and market discipline.
The NEIR is a centralised database that records the International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers of all mobile phones used in Bangladesh. It aims to curb illegal and counterfeit handsets, prevent tax evasion, reduce phone-related crimes, and ensure that only legally imported devices can access mobile networks.
However, some experts have raised concerns over potential surveillance. The government has said existing telecom laws make unlawful surveillance using SIM cards or devices a punishable offence.
