Virtual Bangladesh : Communication

[Telephones] [Internet] [Statistics]

Telephones

Landline

The landline telephone system in Bangladesh is state owned and the Bangladesh Telephone and Telegraph Board (BTTB) is the controlling authority. Mobile communication is more competitive and there are a number of competing services in Bangladesh.

Cell Phone Companies

GrameenPhone - Operated by the Gramen Bank
CityCell
Sheba
Aktel - joint venture of Telekom Malaysia and A. K. Khan & Co. Ltd. Started commercial operation as GSM cellular phone operator Dhaka (97) and Chittagong (98).

More detailed information on the telephone system (how to dial, dial codes etc.) can be obtained from Virtual Bangladesh.

Internet

Internet connectivity to Bangladesh is over VSAT. There are a number of ISPs providing internet accesses in the larger cities of Bangladesh. Dhaka also has several internet cafes. While the subscriber base is small, it is rising rapidly. Additional information and links can be obtained from the Virtual Bangladesh Directory on Computers and Internet.

Statistics

Telephone density:	0.34 (2000)
Cellular density:	0.12 (2000)
Equipment market size:	$110 million
U.S. telecom equipment exports:	$10,901,000
Telecom services revenue:	$200.4 (Total M US$ 1996)
WTO Basic Telecom Services Agreement signatory:	Yes
Market environment:	The Bangladesh Telegraph & Telephone Board (BTTB) is the principal operator and holds a monopoly in provision of telephone services in the urban areas, domestic long-distance and international services. Two private sector telecom operators, Sheba Telecommunications and Bangladesh Rural Telecom Authority have 25-year exclusive licenses (issued in 1989) to provide local telecom services in rural areas of the country. Four firms have licenses to provide cellular telephone service, and one company offers paging services. Bangladesh allows 100% foreign investment in its cellular and the two local service suppliers.
Regulatory authorities:	BTTB serves as the regulator, as well as the principal telecom operator. Creation of a new regulatory regime is under review.
Network operators:	Bangladesh Telegraph & Telephone Board Telejogajog Bhaban, 36/1 Mymensingh Rd Dhaka 1000 Fax (800-2) 832-577 Bangladesh Rural Telecommunication Authority Rajuk Annex Building Dilkusha C/A, GPO Box 3769 Dhaka 1000 Fax: (800-2) 956-4554