After nearly 15 months, mobile phone operators in Bangladesh are regaining freedom in selling internet data packages, as the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) issued a new directive on Sunday, removing the limit on the number of data packages.
Under the updated guidelines, operators are now allowed to introduce hourly internet packages with specified data volumes. For instance, packages can include a maximum of 200 MB per hour, 3 GB per day, 5 GB over two days, and 8 GB over three days. Additionally, the directive allows operators to offer customer-centric packages of varying durations.
Previously, in October 2023, the BTRC had limited data packages to a maximum of 40, with durations of 7 days, 30 days, or unlimited (without specific validity), which drew dissatisfaction from operators. The new directive resolves those concerns.
However, operators remain restricted from offering hourly or minute-based packages between midnight and 6:00 AM.
Package Categories and New Features
The new directive organizes data offerings into three categories:
- Regular Packages: Available to all customers with a minimum validity of 15 days.
- Special Packages: Designed for specific customer groups based on usage and average revenue, with a minimum validity of 3 days.
- Research and Development Packages: Market analysis-driven offers with a minimum validity of 7 days.
Operators are also permitted to design additional packages in line with customer preferences and socioeconomic considerations. A “Flexible Plan” package will be introduced, allowing users to customize their data plans. Unlimited packages will also be available but must include a defined time limit.
Unused data from an expired package can be “carried forward” if the same package is repurchased before expiration. Customers must be notified of package expiry at least one day in advance via SMS.
Industry Response
Operators had been running trial versions of the new guidelines for three weeks, which were met with positive feedback. Expressing optimism, Robi Axiata’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer Shahed Alam stated, “We see this directive as a positive development.” Grameenphone’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tanveer Mohammad and Banglalink’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman echoed similar sentiments.
Background
In October 2023, the BTRC discontinued 3-day and 15-day data packages for mobile subscribers. However, following discussions with operators, 1-day and 3-day data packages were reintroduced on July 28, 2024, as part of limited options under the previous regulations. The new directive now offers greater flexibility to operators while maintaining customer-focused provisions.
