Bangladesh prepares NEIR system to block illegal mobile phones amid mafia resistance

The government of Bangladesh is set to launch the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR), a central system aimed at blocking cloned, smuggled, and illegally imported mobile phones, citing national security and economic concerns.

Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser at the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, said NEIR will prevent the use of devices with duplicate IMEI numbers, which are widely used in SIM fraud, mobile financial scams, gambling, phishing, tax evasion, and cross-border smuggling. “There will be no concessions in removing illegal devices from the market,” he added, UNB reports.

Taiyeb warned that a “powerful mafia group” involved in the clone-phone trade is actively opposing NEIR, as the system would shut down the illegal import channel. He also advised users to register SIM cards in their own names to avoid complications, noting that legitimate traders will not face any harassment under the new system.

To make lawful devices more accessible, officials are discussing ways to lower import duties and encouraging domestic manufacturers to reduce handset prices. BTRC is also simplifying registration for legally imported phones, with all devices active before 16 December automatically deemed valid. Expatriates will be allowed to bring one or two phones under existing rules.

Despite the government push, the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB) announced plans for nationwide shop closures, protesting the 57% tax on luggage phones, which they claim will make business unviable and hurt consumers. In contrast, the Mobile Phone Industry Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (MIOB) dismissed these reports, stating that shops remain open and urged consumers to buy through legitimate channels for warranty protection and reliable service.

Taiyeb emphasized that illegal phone imports not only threaten revenue but also compromise national security, adding that foreign phones do not enter countries like India in such large numbers and that high-end prices cannot be lowered through illegal channels.

The NEIR initiative is intended to protect users, support legitimate businesses, and strengthen law enforcement efforts across mobile banking, internet, and telecommunications sectors.