The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has cautioned handset importers and sellers against raising mobile phone prices following the launch of the National Equipment Identity Registrar (NEIR) system.
The regulator says it is closely monitoring market prices to ensure consumers, especially low-income users, are not burdened by artificial price hikes.
Speaking as chief guest at a seminar titled “Importance of NEIR for Legal and Secure Handset Use” organized by the Telecom and Technology Reporters Network Bangladesh (TRNB) on Thursday, BTRC Commissioner Mahmud Hossain said, “We are watching the market closely. No one will be allowed to increase smartphone prices unnecessarily.”
He noted that a campaign will soon be launched to raise awareness about mandatory mobile phone registration, adding, “There is misinformation that smartphone prices will rise due to NEIR. BTRC is alert to prevent such manipulation.”
Hossain also said the regulator is working to keep handset prices within the reach of low-income consumers. “If prices increase for luxury models, that is a separate matter. But essential smartphones must remain affordable.
To reduce cost pressures, BTRC is introducing installment-based purchase options in collaboration with mobile operators and handset manufacturers, he told the seminar.
BTRC Director General Aminul Haque assured that the NEIR system is fully secure and designed to block unregistered devices. “There is no room for irregularities,” he said.
Industry representatives echoed support for NEIR.
Mobile Phone Industry Owners Association of Bangladesh (MIOB) President Zakaria Shahid said, “NEIR is a national initiative—not anyone’s personal project. No honest stakeholder can oppose it.” He also promised that handset prices would not rise because of the registration system.
Mobile Phone Distributor Association Secretary General Abdullah Al Harun Raju stressed that illegal phones entering the country through borders pose a bigger threat to the market. “This is why NEIR must be implemented without delay,” he said.
Smart Technologies Managing Director Zahirul Islam added that obtaining a mobile phone import license in Bangladesh is straightforward, and necessary paperwork can be completed within a month.
Additional DIG of Police Md Zahidul Islam, said the introduction of NEIR system will help improve cyber security as it would fend off cloning of phones and social communication accounts.
“It is very important to effectively implement the NEIR system so that Bangladesh’s mobile, financial and technological sectors remain secure and improve a lot,” the official, who has been working for improving cyber security in the country, pointed out.
The seminar was moderated by TRNB President Samir Kumar Dey, which was also attended by Synesis IT CSO Aminul Bari Saurav, and Nagad Vice President Zahidul Islam.
TRNB Organizing Secretary Al Amin Dewan delivered the welcome speech.