Broadband Expo 2026 Debuts in Dhaka Showcasing Digital Infrastructure Drive
For the first time in the capital, a three-day technology-focused event titled ‘Broadband Expo 2026’ has begun. The expo, aimed at highlighting the country’s internet infrastructure, innovation, and digital future, will continue until April 15. With participation from various technology companies, policymakers, and young innovators, the event has already become vibrant.
The expo remains open to visitors daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, the exhibition will conclude in the afternoon of the final day.
Organized by the Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) under the theme ‘Linking People, Linking Future’, the expo features broadband and ICT-sector organizations showcasing their services, software, hardware, and network-based products. This year’s event includes 10 pavilions, 35 mini pavilions, and 20 stalls.
One of the major attractions of the expo is the ‘Experience Zone’, where around 25 technology-based projects developed by students from various universities across the country are being showcased. Visitors are getting the opportunity to directly experience robotics, IoT (Internet of Things), and other innovative technologies. This has created a major platform to highlight the innovative thinking and technical skills of young people.
The expo was officially inaugurated on April 13, Monday, at the Bangladesh–China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital. The inauguration was conducted by Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan and the Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan A. Asad.
In his opening remarks at the event, ISPAB Secretary General Nazmul Karim Bhuiyan spoke about existing challenges including license renewal issues and placed demands before the government regarding sector-related matters.
In his special remarks, BTRC Chairman Major General (Retd.) Md. Emdad Ul Bari said, “There is a plan to rename Fixed Telecom Service Providers (FTSP) back to ‘Internet Service Provider’. In addition, the usage policy of the Social Obligation Fund (SOF) will also be reconsidered.”
Additionally, Additional Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division Zahirul Islam said, “Initiatives will be taken in consultation with stakeholders to resolve issues related to ISP license renewal and active sharing.”
In his presidential remarks, ISPAB President Mohammad Aminul Hakim said, “Approximately 20,000 crore taka has already been invested in this sector. However, only about 30 percent of the network is currently being utilized, while the rest remains unused. If ‘active sharing’ is implemented, this unused capacity can be utilized.” He also emphasized the need to unify transmission rates across the country to implement a ‘one country, one rate’ system. Noting that broadband internet usage in the country is around 15 percent, he said it could be increased to 50 percent within the next five years with government cooperation and policy support.
Organizers hope that ‘Broadband Expo 2026’ will open a new horizon in the development of the country’s internet infrastructure, technological innovation, and expansion of digital services.
DBTech/HAH/EI/OR
