With the country being digitalised, the usage of the internet is also increasing, however, due to the lack of active sharing permission and high amount of VAT on the router, modem, cable etc, the internet is not readily available to all consumers.
According to FBCCI, if the maintenance cost of the internet can be reduced, it will be possible to provide internet services to regular consumers at a cheaper price.
FBCCI Director Syed Sahat Almas Kabir made the remark in the first meeting of the FBCCI standing committee on modern communication, networking and BPO.
The meeting took place at the FBCCI office on Thursday noon, reads a press release.
“There is no permission for active sharing in the country. That’s why internet cost is very high. Meanwhile, the devices required for internet connection also has high VAT imposed on them,” he said, adding that infrastructure is being created for the internet to be reached in every corner of the country now.
“At this time, reducing the VAT on internet-related hardwares will make internet cheaper. Internet will be readily available everywhere and it will also increase the government’s revenue,” he added.
Regarding outsourcing, Almas Kabir said that business process outsourcing (BPO) is very important for a country like Bangladesh and this sector can be expanded like the RMG sector in the country.
He urged BPO companies to identify the government services that can be outsourced and come up with specific suggestions.
“If we can create an appropriate environment, female participation in outsourcing will increase. It will also help the government,” he added.
FBCCI standing committee Chairman Wahidur Rahman Sharif presided over the meeting. He said: “It is necessary to look after the quality of the internet while making it cheaper. The parties concerned need to work together to make sure that powerful internet connection is available in other districts as well as Dhaka.”
He further said that the youth has the potential to work at the local call centres. They only need to obtain the necessary skills to do so.
The standing committee co-chairman and members also urged the government to remove VAT on the outsourcing sector.
FBCCI Vice-President MA Momen attended the event as chief guest and among others, FBCCI Director Md Hafez Harun, Secretary-General Mohammad Mahfuzul Huq, Committee Co-Chairman Md Emdadul Huq Molla and committee members attended the meeting.
