Government to Uphold NEIR Implementation Despite Mobile Trader Protests

The National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) will remain in effect as the government has already addressed the core grievances of mobile phone traders, according to Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser.

Speaking after a visit to the vandalized Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) building on Sunday, Taiyeb labeled the recent violence "unjustified and against the law."

"The government has significantly reduced import duties to support legitimate business, yet state establishments were attacked," Taiyeb said. "Violent assaults on public property are unacceptable, and those responsible will face legal consequences."

The statement follows a January 1 protest where traders besieged the BTRC, demanding a halt to the NEIR system. Protesters argued the registration system was implemented before import procedures were simplified or taxes rationalized.

Taiyeb clarified that initial technical glitches in the NEIR portal have been resolved, ensuring a smoother experience for users. He further noted that the system is vital for market discipline, though the government has granted a 90-day grace period before any handsets are disconnected.

The government recently slashed customs duties on mobile phone imports from 25% to 10% and reduced duties on locally manufactured handsets to 5% to stabilize prices and curb the grey market.