The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) plans to strengthen its National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR). During its meeting on 28 September 2026, BTRC approved a relaunch for 1 January 2027.
The updated Bangladesh NEIR will introduce a key feature: the ability to block handsets produced or imported without authorization.
The system first entered a trial phase in 2021. It then went live in January 2026 without the blocking feature. The upcoming relaunch will help authorities identify unauthorized devices and improve control over handset imports.
Bangladesh NEIR Relaunch: Two Implementation Phases
BTRC will introduce the updated system in two phases.
Phase One: Starting 1 January 2027
The first phase will activate most of the system’s planned features.
Authorities will be able to identify illegally produced and imported handsets. They will also be able to prevent the sale and use of phones that entered the market without paying customs duties.
However, the system will not yet block cloned handsets.
Phase Two: Date Not Yet Announced
The second phase will introduce handset de-registration and re-registration. These features will allow users to transfer handset ownership.
BTRC has not announced a launch date for this phase.
Automatic Registration for Existing Handsets
The updated system will simplify registration for existing mobile phone users.
All handsets already active on operator networks will enter the register automatically. Therefore, current users will not need to register these devices manually.
Additionally, importers can submit IMEI numbers and other details for imported handsets that remain unsold or in stock.
This option will help importers prepare their existing inventory for the new system.
What the Bangladesh NEIR Update Means for Importers
The January 2027 relaunch introduces stronger controls over unauthorized handsets.
Importers should pay close attention to their IMEI records and import procedures. Accurate device information will become more important as BTRC activates the blocking feature.
Moreover, the system will help authorities identify handsets that entered Bangladesh without the required customs duties.
The update focuses on handset registration and import control. It does not announce new technical standards or changes to existing type approval procedures.
Public Awareness Before the Launch
BTRC plans to run a public information campaign for at least two months before the relaunch.
This campaign will help inform consumers, importers, and other stakeholders about the updated NEIR system.
Meanwhile, companies that supply mobile devices to Bangladesh should follow further announcements from BTRC.
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