SIM Tax Withdrawal Welcomed, But Mobile Users Say Relief Still Incomplete: BMGA
The Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association has welcomed the government’s decision to withdraw the Tk 300 tax on new SIM card registrations in the proposed national budget for FY2026–27, calling it a positive step toward improving digital inclusion and easing pressure on mobile users.
The association’s President Mahmud Uddin Ahmed said the removal of the SIM tax would make it easier for people to obtain new mobile connections, particularly benefiting low-income groups, students, and rural communities. He added that the move would also help expand access to digital services such as mobile banking, online education, and e-governance.
According to the association, the decision is expected to support broader digital access across the country. Lower upfront costs for SIM acquisition could encourage more people to join the formal mobile network, especially in underserved rural areas.
Mahmud Uddin Ahmed described the move as a “welcome initiative” that would contribute to expanding digital connectivity in Bangladesh.
However, the association stressed that removing SIM registration tax alone is not enough to ease the overall burden on consumers.
He noted that mobile users are still facing high value-added tax (VAT), supplementary duty, and other charges on mobile services and internet usage, which continue to increase the cost of digital access.
The association urged the government to take a more comprehensive approach to reforming the telecom sector. It recommended reducing taxes on mobile services, ensuring affordable internet access, and improving overall service quality.
It also emphasized the need to strengthen network coverage in rural areas and expand broadband infrastructure across the country to ensure reliable digital access for all citizens.
Mahmud Uddin Ahmed said that while the SIM tax withdrawal is a step in the right direction, it does not fully resolve the financial pressure faced by consumers.
He stressed that a long-term, coordinated policy is necessary to make the telecom sector truly consumer-friendly and to support the vision of a fully digital Bangladesh.
He concluded that sustainable digital development requires affordable services, improved infrastructure, and consistent policy support so that every citizen can access quality telecom services at a reasonable cost.
