Illegally imported handsets can't be used from early next year

Illegally imported mobile handsets or handsets with fake International Mobile Equipment Identification (IMEI) numbers cannot be used in the country from next year. Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is adopting a technology which will restrict the SIM cards of such handsets.

Zakir Hossain Khan, senior assistant director (Media), BTRC confirmed the news. He said, “This decision was scheduled to be executed by October this year, but was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Tendering process for the software solution is almost done and will be implemented by early next year,” he added.

Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has been working to launch the technology for several years as a part of its move to crack down on illegal imports and duty evasion.

Earlier in July 2019., the national telecom regulator issued a public notice in this regard and asked handset buyers to check whether their mobile device's unique IMEI numbers are registered with the BTRC.