Bangladesh’s 700MHz spectrum auction has taken a surprising turn as Robi Axiata withdrew, leaving Grameenphone the sole participant in the auction scheduled for Wednesday.
Neither Banglalink nor state-owned Teletalk submitted applications, highlighting investment hesitation among smaller operators.
BTRC cuts price and spectrum limit
Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) revised the auction terms following low participation:
- Maximum spectrum per operator: 10MHz (down from 15MHz)
- Base price per MHz: Tk2,370 crore (down 10% from Tk2,630 crore)
- Licence duration: 15 years
BTRC said the changes aim to support smaller players and ensure healthy competition, though only Grameenphone remains in the race.
Robi cites strategic, technical teasons
Robi’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer Shahed Alam said the company opted out after a strategic and technical review. “The 700MHz band is vital for future network growth, but the timing of this auction does not align with Robi’s priorities or market conditions,” he said.
BTRC Chairman Major General (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari confirmed Robi’s withdrawal but said preparations for the auction would continue. Robi has applied for spectrum in another band, which may be considered separately.
Banglalink not ready
Banglalink’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Taimur Rahman said the company is not in a position to invest due to financial and technical constraints and hopes to acquire spectrum in the 800MHz band in the future.
Legal and market challenges
Around 20MHz of the 700MHz band remains tied up in a long-running legal dispute stemming from a 2007 allocation, limiting full utilization. Analysts say high spectrum costs and uncertain returns continue to discourage smaller operators.
Implications for 5G
The 700MHz band is critical for 5G rollout and high-speed internet coverage, especially in rural areas and indoor environments. With Grameenphone now the sole bidder, the auction’s outcome could accelerate the company’s network expansion—but may also raise concerns over competition and market balance.