The Bangladesh Mobile Phone Industry Owners Association (MIOB) has voiced strong support for the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR), saying the system will strengthen transparency, consumer protection and security across the country’s mobile phone market.
Speaking at a press conference in Dhaka on Tuesday, MIOB leaders said the recently implemented NEIR would help curb illegal, counterfeit and stolen handsets, reduce phone cloning and fraud, and create a more disciplined and competitive industry. The event, titled “Towards a Safer Bangladesh through NEIR”, was held at the InterContinental Dhaka and attended by industry representatives.
MIOB welcomed the government’s decision to roll out NEIR from January 1 alongside a reduction in smartphone import duties, describing the measures as timely steps to encourage legitimate imports and restore market discipline after years of irregularities.
Speakers said the system would enhance consumer security by preventing the use of illegal IMEIs, while also strengthening the digital economy and boosting government revenue through improved compliance.
According to the association, more than Tk 3,000 crore has been invested—by both local and foreign investors—in 18 smartphone manufacturing facilities in Bangladesh. The sector directly employs about 50,000 skilled workers and supports another 50,000 people through dealers, service centres and retail operations, with women accounting for around 30 per cent of the workforce.
However, MIOB expressed concern over recent violence and disorder linked to protests against NEIR, including vandalism at the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) office. The association said a small group of illegal smartphone retailers—estimated at 1,000 to 1,500 out of nearly 12,000 businesses nationwide—had engaged in unlawful activities, including shop shutdowns, threats to workers and attempts to disrupt normal business.
“These actions damage public order and undermine Bangladesh’s investment climate and international image,” MIOB said, warning that instability in a sector heavily reliant on foreign direct investment could deter both existing and future investors.
MIOB president Jakaria Shahid said NEIR was a “positive and necessary initiative” to ensure discipline and consumer protection. “We strongly condemn the vandalism at the BTRC office and any form of violence,” he said. “Policy disagreements must be addressed through lawful and peaceful means. With consistent policies and an investment-friendly environment, the smartphone industry can play an even greater role in the national economy.”