The country’s mobile phone operators on Saturday expressed their readiness to participate in the upcoming 3G (Third Generation) auction, but they sought regulatory clarity on a few issues, including investment security, tax and VAT. Their demands include reduction of VAT and licence fees for 2G and 3G services and an amicable settlement of all related cases pending in the court. This was stated by the chief executive officers (CEOs) of Grameenphone, Banglalink and Robi. They were speaking at a day-long seminar on Telecom Policy for National Development, organised by the Global System for Mobile Communication Association (GSMA) at Westine Dhaka.
They expressed optimism that all unresolved issues would be addressed before the 3G auction scheduled for September 2 this year. “As a mobile operator, we’re fully committed to adopting the policy taken by the government. But the regulator has to create a congenial environment, so that our target can be achieved,” said Grameenphone CEO Vivek Sood.
He also said that the regulatory issues, including uncertain investment, VAT and other taxes, should be resolved before the auction.
He further said that a tripartite meeting could help resolve the pending issues.
Banglalink CEO Ziad Shatara said though they are ready to take part in the 3G auction, the entire issue depends on the response of the regulator.
Robi CEO Michael Kuehner said they are also prepared to participate in the 3G auction. “But we need some clarifications on regulatory aspects to keep our stakeholders in the know,” he added. When asked, Sunil Kanti Bose, chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), said a few issues have already been cleared to encourage the telecom sector.
-With The Independent input
