The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) on Monday held a crucial meeting with the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB) at its Agargaon headquarters to address disputes surrounding the National Equipment Identity Registrar (NEIR) system. While discussions continued inside, hundreds of mobile traders gathered outside the BTRC building, staging a sit-in to press for reforms to the NEIR policy.

Traders argue that the NEIR’s implementation could harm thousands of small retailers and benefit only select groups, while also driving up handset prices for consumers due to increased taxes and regulatory costs. MBCB leaders emphasized their preference for a peaceful, negotiated resolution. In contrast, BTRC officials defended the NEIR as essential for curbing illegal handset imports, ensuring consumer safety, and improving transparency in device tracking.

A high-level joint meeting is scheduled for Tuesday to resolve the impasse, involving the Prime Minister’s economic adviser, the NBR chairman, the commerce secretary, and representatives from mobile manufacturers and traders. The outcome could determine the future of Bangladesh’s mobile phone retail market and regulatory environment.