Government Plans to Reduce Smartphone Prices to BDT 2,500–3,000

The government is planning to bring down smartphone prices to between BDT 2,500 and BDT 3,000 in an effort to make digital technology accessible to all segments of the population. Officials say that nearly half of the country’s population still does not own a smartphone, which is considered a major barrier to digital progress.

At a seminar held in the capital, an advisor related to the information and technology sector stated that while the cheapest smartphones currently cost between BDT 9,000 and BDT 10,000, discussions are ongoing with various stakeholders to significantly reduce prices. Mobile manufacturers, retailers, banks, and telecom operators are being engaged in a coordinated effort to achieve this goal.

According to the advisor, the objective is to set a price point that allows even low-income individuals such as farmers, day laborers, and rickshaw drivers to afford a smartphone. Ensuring that people in remote areas also gain access to modern technology is being treated as a priority.

High taxes on computer and technology products were identified as a major obstacle in this sector. In many neighboring countries, such products are subject to low or zero taxes, whereas in Bangladesh, relatively high tax rates still apply. As a result, the cost of technology products remains comparatively high.

The government is also planning to develop an integrated digital platform where citizens can access multiple services, including identification and financial transactions, in one place. This initiative is expected to simplify and speed up access to both public and private services. The rollout is expected to begin in phases within the next one to one-and-a-half years.

In terms of telecommunications development, efforts are underway to expand high-speed internet coverage across the country and accelerate the rollout of 5G services. There are also plans to introduce a digital ID and digital wallet system for every citizen.

Industry stakeholders believe that while the number of mobile and internet users is increasing, there is still significant room for improvement in service quality. Dissatisfaction remains, particularly in rural areas where internet connectivity is often weak.

Overall, reducing prices, improving infrastructure, and implementing supportive policies are being prioritized to make technology more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Source: Daily Inqilab