Mobile trader’s representative will meet with the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission on Tuesday to discuss the National Equipment Identity Register issue.
Earlier on Sunday, mobile phone traders under the banner of Mobile Business Community Bangladesh conducted a day-long blockade at BTRC headquarters in Agargaon, which ended around 9 PM after the regulator agreed, in principle, to reform the proposed NEIR policy.
However, the traders stated that all mobile phone markets will remain closed until a final decision is made.
The NEIR aims to register and verify every mobile phone’s unique IMEI number to block illegal handsets, curb mobile-related crimes, and support legitimate manufacturers by controlling the black market.
Earlier, the MBCB members said that NEIR should be introduced only after consultations with market participants who collectively account for more than 70 per cent of the country’s mobile phone market share.
They also said that they were not opposed to the NEIR in principle, but seek rational reforms to the process, a fair taxation framework, the dismantling of monopolistic syndicates, and equal opportunities for all businesses to safeguard free and competitive trade.
They also said that the authorities are moving to enforce NEIR unilaterally without hearing the concerns of the vast majority of retailers.
Traders argued that it would be impossible to clear the stock by December 16, warning that granting exclusive advantages to a handful of businesses would cripple the rest of the market.
Bangladesh’s mobile handset industry is poised for a significant transformation as the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission prepares to introduce the NEIR on December 16, 2025.
The system would block the use of illegally imported or unregistered phones, ensuring market discipline, protecting investments, and strengthening consumer rights and security.
Meanwhile, Mobile Phone Industry Owners’ Association of Bangladesh in a press conference on Monday at Dhaka Reporters unity in the Capital, emphasised the importance of NEIR for consumer protection, government revenue, and the stability of Bangladesh’s mobile ecosystem.
The mobile manufacturing sector has significantly contributed to the economy with 18 active factories and over Tk 3,000 crore in investment, creating more than 100,000 jobs.
However, grey market imports hinder the industry’s potential, costing the government over Tk 2,000 crore in annual revenue loss and compromising cybersecurity.
NEIR aims to eliminate unauthorised devices on mobile networks, fostering a fair business environment.
MIOB clarified that the existing 57 per cent import tax on CBU devices has not increased under the current government and dismissed allegations of “syndication” as baseless.
They assured that NEIR would not disrupt the pre-owned or refurbished phone market and emphasised the transparency of import licensing and baggage rules for returning passengers.
In conclusion, MIOB reiterated that NEIR is crucial for revenue protection, digital security, lawful business practices, and a sustainable mobile ecosystem in Bangladesh.
The meeting will be attended by the adviser for posts and telecommunications, the finance adviser, the NBR chairman, the commerce secretary, and representatives of the Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association and the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh.
