​In a significant move to streamline international mobile services, Bangladesh Bank has issued a circular permitting mobile operators to collect roaming charges from customers in Bangladeshi Taka (Tk). This initiative aims to simplify the process for residents traveling abroad who require roaming services.

Previously, Bangladeshi travelers were required to make roaming payments in foreign currency through international cards. Under the new directive, customers can pay up to Tk 6,000 per trip and a maximum of Tk 30,000 in a calendar year for roaming services. These limits apply regardless of the number of mobile numbers or operators used.

To activate roaming services, customers must present a valid visa (if required) and travel ticket, with the service being activated at least one week prior to the journey. This measure is designed to ensure proper documentation and planning for international travel.​

For mobile operators to make payments to foreign network partners, authorized dealers of foreign exchange are allowed to remit the amounts, subject to strict documentation and verification. Dealers must collect agreements, invoices, proof of tax payments, and a statement showing customer earnings and international payables. Operators are also required to provide an undertaking confirming that roaming charges in Taka did not exceed the limits set by the central bank.

Additionally, authorized dealers will prioritize using foreign currency from the operator’s existing accounts and only use Taka if necessary. All remittances must be processed through the authorized dealers’ designated branch and reported to the relevant department of Bangladesh Bank.

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Shahed Alam, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer of Robi Axiata PLC, commended the decision, stating that eliminating the credit card requirement for accessing international roaming services is a progressive move poised to retain significant revenue within the country. He also extended gratitude to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission for their support in this initiative.

“We commend Bangladesh Bank’s decision to eliminate the credit card requirement for accessing international roaming services,”

said Shahed Alam, chief corporate and regulatory officer of Robi Axiata PLC.

He further said that this progressive move is poised to retain significant revenue within the country, curbing outflows to foreign operators and bolstering its telecommunications sector.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission for their steadfast support in this initiative,”

Alam added.

This policy change is expected to benefit both consumers and the telecommunications sector by simplifying payment processes and retaining revenue within Bangladesh.