The government has decided to reduce the customs duty on mobile phone imports by 60 percent, from 25 percent to 10 percent.
This significant move, aimed at lowering mobile phone prices, was confirmed on Thursday during a meeting of the Advisory Council.
The decision also includes the regularisation of mobile phones already in stock with importers under the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system, without any additional tax or duties, read a release by the post, telecommunications, and information technology ministry.
As per the new policy, legitimate mobile importers will now pay a reduced customs duty of 10 percent, compared to the previous rate of 25 percent. Local mobile manufacturers will also benefit from a reduction in duty, with the rate dropping from 10 percent to 5 percent.
This cut, which represents a 60 percent reduction for importers and 50 percent for local manufacturers, is expected to help both legal imports and local production while making mobile phones more affordable for consumers.
While some opposition existed regarding the reduction of import duties in favour of boosting local production, the government has moved forward with the decision, which is expected to cost the government approximately Tk 35 crore in losses for the current fiscal year, read the release.
It then added, “In response to security concerns following the murder of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Shahid Osman Hadi, law enforcement agencies have urged the government to reduce the number of active SIM cards per person.
“The NEIR system, which aims to register and track mobile phones in the country, is now set to be fully implemented. The government had previously stated that NEIR would only be enforced once the customs duty on mobile phones was reduced.”
As part of the government’s approach, expatriates returning to Bangladesh will not have their phones blocked for three months upon arrival.
Those staying for less than three months will not need to register their phones, while those staying longer will be required to complete the registration process.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) will provide a list of valid mobile phone numbers to ensure smooth implementation of the system. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing all valid claims and ensuring the proper regularisation of mobile phones.
Despite these regulatory changes, the government has vowed that those involved in the recent attack on BTRC office will face legal consequences. Strict operations will also be conducted at customs houses and airports to prevent illegal mobile imports.
In addition, the government has reinforced that the new telecommunications ordinance will include stringent measures to prevent the misuse of SIM cards and NEIR data. Severe penalties will be imposed on any abuses of the system, ensuring that the NEIR’s integrity is maintained.
The government also warned that illegal mobile imports and sales will be dealt with through targeted operations at wholesale markets and customs houses. The ministry urged all parties to comply with the law to maintain market order.
