Lower internet data prices or benefits will face ‘reconsideration’, Taiyeb tells phone network operators

The chief advisor’s Special Assistant on ICT Affairs, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, has warned phone network operators that the benefits granted to them will be reconsidered if they do not cut internet prices.

Speaking at the BTRC headquarters on Thursday, Faiz explained that this means their outstanding dues, which were previously waived, could be pursued again.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to reduce costs in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

According to Faiz, the ministry is set to propose a year-on-year reduction of nearly Tk 500 million in the upcoming budget, by cutting down on internal expenses and halting “flashy” projects.

Efforts are also under way to boost revenue from government agencies linked to the ministry.

Elaborating on the special concessions granted to phone network operators, he said: “We have provided the transmission-related support that phone network operators had requested. The IIG and NTTN companies have already announced reductions in transmission charges, which will take effect from July. This is because they are paying taxes and VAT based on the existing rates.”

Faiz also pointed out that the submarine cable company has reduced bandwidth prices, adding that the privileges will be taken away if operators do not follow suit.

Earlier, on Apr 21, Faiz had called on telecom operators to lower internet prices.

In a Facebook post, he mentioned that the government had already granted DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) and dark fibre access to the companies, leaving them no reason not to reduce their internet prices.

Noting that costs have already dropped at various layers of the internet sector, Faiz added: “Only the three private mobile service providers have yet to announce reductions.”

He also noted that internet costs are being reduced in three phases.

According to him, Fiber@Home have confirmed that they will reduce prices by 10 percent at the ITC and IIG levels, and by 15 percent at the NTTN or national transmission level.