Mobile SIM bases contract while fixed broadband marks steady growth

An analysis of data from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) over a four-year horizon reveals a diverse and evolving narrative for the nation's digital landscape. As of May 2026, the country's active mobile SIM subscriber base reached 18.86 Crores (188.60 million). Compared to four years prior—August 2021, when subscriptions hovered at 17.86 Crores (178.61 million)—the market gained approximately 1 Crore net new mobile users over the long term.

However, mid-term data reveals a distinct contraction. Two years ago, in May 2024, total mobile subscriptions peaked at 19.51 Crores (195.09 million). The subsequent drop to 18.86 Crores by May 2026 marks a net reduction of nearly 65 Lakh active SIM cards within a 24-month window.

 Mobile Subscriber Market Dynamics

According to the latest BTRC data for May 2026, the total number of active mobile subscriptions stands at 18.86 Crores (188.60 million). In May 2024, this figure was 19.51 Crores (195.09 million), indicating a reduction of approximately 65 Lakh subscriptions over two years.

A granular assessment of the mobile operators highlights contrasting fortunes and changing market shares:

• Grameenphone (GP): The market leader expanded its dominance, growing from 8.49 Crores in May 2024 to 8.59 Crores by May 2026, capturing a net addition of 10 Lakh subscribers.

• Robi Axiata: Maintaining a solid footing in the second spot, Robi experienced a minor correction, sliding slightly from 5.89 Crores in May 2024 to 5.82 Crores (specifically 5 Crores 81 Lakh 80 Thousand) in May 2026.

• Banglalink: The operator faced the steepest volatility; after hitting a high of 4.44 Crores (44.48 million) in June 2024, its subscriber base fell significantly to 3.77 Crores (37.71 million) by May 2026, registering a net drop of roughly 70 Lakh subscriptions over the two-year period.

• Teletalk: The state-owned enterprise remained static, confined to its historic baseline, shifting nominally from 66 Lakhs in May 2024 to 68 Lakhs in May 2026.

  The Great Internet Recalibration: Mobile Deflation vs. Broadband Expansion

  The most striking fluctuations occurred within the internet user base. As of May 2026, total internet subscriptions in Bangladesh stood at 13.41 Crores (134.07 million). This is marginally higher than the 12.92 Crores (129.18 million) recorded in October 2021, but it represents a sharp drop from the sector's historical peak. In June 2024, total internet subscriptions hit an all-time record of 14.22 Crores (142.17 million). The subsequent decline was driven entirely by a sudden deflation in mobile internet users. In June 2024, mobile internet subscriptions stood at 12.92 Crores (129.17 million); by May 2026, this number plummeted to 11.91 Crores (119.12 million), indicating that nearly 1 Crore mobile data subscriptions were shed over two years.

  Conversely, fixed broadband (ISP & PSTN) subscriptions grew from 1.34 Crores to 1.49 Crores (an increase of 15 Lakhs), showing a steady adoption of stable home and office connectivity.

  //DBTech/AAM/IH//