No good news for small and medium ISPs in new budget: ISPAB
The proposed national budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 has brought no significant changes or benefits for the small and medium-sized internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh, said Aminul Hakim, president of the Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB).
"The budget is conventional and offers nothing new for the country's internet sector," Hakim said in a statement today (2 June).
He noted that while there may be some relief for ISPs serving corporate clients, most small and medium providers will see no benefit.
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"Corporate clients deduct Advance Income Tax [AIT] before paying their internet bills. With the AIT rate reduced from 10% to 5%, a few ISPs may get some minor advantage," he explained.
Hakim also criticised the government's approach to reducing internet prices.
"The government wants lower internet costs but won't adjust VAT, taxes, or import duties on equipment. Without changes in these areas, internet prices won't come down," he said.
