The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has revised its guidelines, allowing mobile network operators to offer more flexible data packages to customers. The most significant change is the removal of the 40-package limit, which previously restricted the number of products operators could provide. Under the new guidelines, operators can now offer an unlimited number of data packages based on customer demand, with no restrictions on volume or validity.
This change enables operators to better tailor their offerings to meet the diverse needs of their customers. To promote digital inclusion, BTRC has also introduced an initiative that instructs operators to provide 200 MB of free data per month to all active mobile numbers. This optional program aims to expand access to the internet and digital services, particularly for underserved populations.
Taimur Rahman, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer at Banglalink, welcomed the changes, stating, “We appreciate initiatives by the regulator to reduce regulatory complexities related to products and services.
Flexible data packages approved
We believe that having the right to design products targeted to customers will enable us to be more customer-centric.”
The revised directive also updates the redemption of loyalty points, allowing customers to redeem their points for non-telecom items, subject to BTRC approval.
This change offers consumers more flexibility and broader reward options. Another update concerns the minimum duration for which products must remain available in the market. Regular products must now remain for at least 15 days, customer-centric special packages for at least three days, and research and development products for at least seven days.
These adjustments provide operators with more agility in managing their product portfolios while ensuring customers have sufficient time to access and benefit from the offerings. The directive also introduces a restriction on internet packages, prohibiting operators from offering such packages between 12am and 6am. This measure aims to curb excessive late-night data usage and promote a more balanced approach to internet consumption.
