Banglalink Denies VEON Acquisition Reports
Mobile operator Banglalink has clarified that reports claiming its parent company, VEON, is planning to acquire state-owned mobile operator Teletalk, mobile financial service provider Nagad, or telecom operator BTCL are inaccurate. However, the company confirmed that VEON is interested in exploring strategic partnerships and investment opportunities with these entities.
Speaking to DigiBangla, Banglalink's Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman said VEON and Banglalink remain committed to the long-term development of Bangladesh’s digital economy.
He noted that the company has invested more than US$2.5 billion in Bangladesh over the past 21 years and is prepared to make significant additional investments if supported by a favorable and predictable regulatory environment.
According to Rahman, VEON views Bangladesh as one of Asia’s most promising digital economies and aims to contribute to its growth through investments in connectivity, digital services, affordable devices, and innovative solutions in sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture.
Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Buse also stated that no formal proposal has yet been submitted. However, the company is evaluating strategic investment opportunities across connectivity and digital service sectors. He added that Banglalink plans to bring in an additional US$100 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the short term.
Recent speculation suggested that VEON had expressed interest in national digital infrastructure development, innovation expansion, and strategic collaboration through a letter sent to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Reports also indicated possible discussions regarding cooperation with Teletalk and investment or partnership opportunities in Nagad. However, the Prime Minister’s Office has not officially confirmed such claims.
Meanwhile, former Nagad Managing Director Tanvir A. Mishuk said discussions with VEON had progressed significantly in 2024 but were not finalized due to prevailing circumstances at the time. He noted that talks regarding potential strategic cooperation have resumed following the formation of the new government.
On the issue of Teletalk, Posts, Telecommunications, ICT, Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam reiterated that the government has no plans to sell the state-owned operator. Nevertheless, authorities are exploring opportunities for domestic and foreign investment to strengthen its competitiveness.
Banglalink’s proposal reportedly includes potential collaboration with Teletalk in network, spectrum, and infrastructure sharing. Discussions have also involved combining BTCL’s fiber network with Banglalink’s mobile and digital platforms to offer integrated digital services.
Industry stakeholders believe that substantial foreign investment in the telecommunications and digital financial services sectors could accelerate the development of Bangladesh’s digital infrastructure, enhance financial inclusion, and expand technology-driven services. Any future investment, partnership, or acquisition initiative, however, would require regulatory approval and compliance with government policies.
//DBTech/EK/MI/OR//
