BTRC Chief Noted Quality Over Price
At the launching ceremony of Grameenphone's 700 MHz spectrum, BTRC Chairman Major General Md Emdad ul Bari (Retd) stated that while Bangladeshi users prioritize price over quality, operators must bear the blame since expectations rise only after experiencing better services. He noted that the 700 MHz band will improve rural coverage and indoor network quality. PM's Adviser Rehan Asif Asad was present as the chief guest.
A large portion of mobile phone users in Bangladesh still prioritize service pricing over quality. However, the responsibility for this mindset does not lie with the customers alone, as higher expectations cannot be built without exposing them to premium service experiences. Therefore, ensuring Quality of Service (QoS) rather than just expanding connectivity is the major challenge now.
Major General Md Emdad ul Bari (Retd), Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), made these remarks at a Dhaka hotel on Sunday (June 14) during the official launch of Grameenphone’s 700 MHz spectrum.
"Our research on QoS reveals that a massive segment of our consumer base is highly price-sensitive rather than quality-sensitive. But I believe customers are not to blame. If we fail to deliver premium service and experience, they will never build expectations for high quality," the BTRC Chairman said. He added that the telecom sector serves as the foundation of the digital economy, and a stronger foundation will drive wider digital adoption.
He noted that since the 2G era, operators have enhanced network capacity by increasing tower density, expanding spectrum, and upgrading technology. Despite these efforts, network connectivity and service quality gaps persist in many areas.
Highlighting the benefits of the new spectrum, the BTRC chief explained that the 700 MHz band will play a pivotal role in expanding network coverage in rural areas. It will also significantly boost indoor network penetration and support industrial connectivity.
Addressing Grameenphone and other mobile operators, the BTRC Chairman urged industry stakeholders to play a more responsible role in meeting customer expectations. He also emphasized the need for active participation from operators to increase device affordability and expand digital services. He invited the private sector to lead innovations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) training and tech-driven services to accelerate the country's digital transformation.
Rehan Asif Asad, Adviser to the Prime Minister on the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications & IT and Ministry of Science & Technology, attended the event as the chief guest. Grameenphone CEO Yasir Azman, along with top telecom industry leaders, also addressed the gathering.
//DBTech/SI/EK//
