Mobile traders allege vested interests behind NEIR rollout, warn of market disruption

The Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB) has alleged that the implementation of the NEIR system is being driven by organised vested groups and certain individual-centric interests, creating instability in the mobile market and putting pressure on small businesses.

The allegations were made at a press conference held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium today (11 January).

Representatives of MBCB claimed that Mohammad Zahirul Islam, managing director of Smart Technologies Limited, is playing an influential role in the process. According to the organisation, he is linked to an import-dependent mobile phone syndicate that is using the NEIR system to establish monopolistic control over the market.

Citing documents, MBCB also alleged that Zahirul is named as an accused in a murder case related to the 2024 July Uprising. The case was filed at Rampura Police Station (case no 20, recorded on 15 June 2025), naming 127 accused.

The case statement mentions allegations of financial support being provided to pro-government forces during the movement, the organisation said.

Responding to the allegations, Zahirul Islam told The Business Standard that the decision to implement the NEIR system was taken by the government and there is no scope for his company to influence the process.

He said the allegations against him were driven by business rivalry. "Rather, we have asked the NBR to reduce VAT and taxes," he said.

Regarding the July case, he claimed he was not properly aware of the case filed in his name. "We were on the ground during the July movement. These cases are false," he added.

Meanwhile, at the press conference, MBCB also referred to an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) investigation memo, claiming that money laundering allegations against Zahirul Islam are currently under investigation.

The allegations reportedly involve the transfer of funds abroad under the cover of mobile phone imports and technology projects.

The organisation further cited an official notice issued on 11 July 2025 by the BNP unit of Ramganj Municipality in Lakshmipur, which it said cancelled Zahirul Islam's membership application after reviewing his past political activities. The notice allegedly described him as an open supporter of the former Awami League government.

MBCB further noted that the NEIR rollout lacks transparency and inclusive decision-making, which is harming around 20,000 small and medium-sized mobile phone traders across the country.

Anisur Rahman Sohel, international affairs editor of MBCB, said action against illegal handsets was necessary, but stressed that the process must be fair and gradual.

"Stopping illegal phones is necessary, but it must be transparent, phased, and trader- and consumer-friendly," he said. "Otherwise, this initiative will create instability in the market and put the livelihoods of thousands of people at risk."