As Bangladesh welcomes a new chapter in its governance, the tech community is buzzing with hope. While every sector needs attention, the technology industry is unique—it is the engine that can accelerate our entire economy into the future. From freelancers to everyday smartphone users, everyone is looking toward the new leadership for practical reforms.
Here are 10 critical technological expectations that could redefine Bangladesh’s digital landscape:
1. The PayPal Dream: Moving Beyond Promises
For over two decades, the arrival of PayPal has been “just around the corner.” For millions of freelancers bringing foreign currency into the country, the current payment gateways are cumbersome and inefficient. We need the new government to move beyond verbal assurances and take the diplomatic and technical steps required to bring PayPal to Bangladesh.
2. Refining the NEIR Policy
The National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) was intended to secure our mobile industry, but its implementation has raised concerns. We need a policy that protects official importers without stifling consumer choice or skyrocketing the prices of the latest global technology. Balance is key here.
3. Lowering MFS Charges: Stopping “Daylight Robbery”
Mobile Financial Services (MFS) like Bkash, Nagad, and Rocket are essential, but their transaction fees are among the highest in the world (nearly 2%). While neighboring countries enjoy near-zero costs for merchant payments, Bangladeshis pay a heavy “tax” on their own money. The government must regulate these costs to encourage a truly digital economy.
4. Making Smartphones Accessible (Tax Reform)
A smartphone is no longer a luxury—it is a tool for education, earning, and communication. High import taxes make these devices unaffordable for the common man. To bridge the digital divide, we need a significant reduction in taxes on mobile handsets and components.
5. Lowering Taxes on Computer Hardware
To build a “Digital Bangladesh,” we need the tools to create. High taxes on laptops and computer parts hinder students and IT professionals. If we want a tech-savvy generation, we must make the hardware affordable.
6. Affordable and Reliable Internet
“Digital” doesn’t work without the “Internet.” While some argue our internet is cheap compared to the West, we must look at local purchasing power. Both mobile data and broadband prices need to be more practical and inclusive for a developing nation.
7. Transitioning to a Cashless Society
A cashless society isn’t just about convenience; it’s a massive blow to corruption. Digital footprints make “under-the-table” dealings difficult. From street vendors to large corporations, a QR-code-based ecosystem will reduce crime, eliminate the hassle of “change,” and modernize our economy.
8. Revamping Government Websites
It is often joked that if there were a competition for the worst UI/UX, government websites would win. In an era of high-speed tech, our public service portals are often crashing or difficult to navigate. We need high-quality, secure, and user-friendly digital public services that actually work.
9. Revitalizing Teletalk
Teletalk, our state-owned operator, should have been the market leader. Instead, it is often a symbol of poor service. The new government should focus on improving Teletalk’s network coverage and customer care, ensuring that our national resources stay within the country.
10. Modernizing the Education Curriculum
Teaching kids to draw a picture of a computer on a blackboard belongs in the past. We need a curriculum where primary students learn coding, AI basics, and digital literacy. If we don’t align our education with global tech trends now, we will be left behind in the next decade.
Final Thoughts: Focus on Sustainability
Beyond these points, we must look toward Renewable Energy (Solar/EVs) to power our tech future and practice Responsible Social Media usage. Technology is a tool—if the government provides the right environment and we use it wisely, Bangladesh can easily become a global tech hub.
What do you think is the most urgent tech reform needed right now? Let’s start the conversation.
