Bangladesh’s growth story in the technology sector is remarkable. From the inception of the telecommunications industry to the emergence of a technologically advanced nation—and now the ambition of building an intelligent Bangladesh—the journey has been extraordinary.

The year 1998 marked a turning point for the telecom industry with the approval of the first telecom policy, laying the foundation for the country’s digital aspirations. That same year, Huawei entered the Bangladeshi market, becoming a long-term partner in the ICT and telecom industry.

Before Huawei’s entry, high costs for radio and transmission equipment made telecom services expensive for subscribers. Huawei brought a fresh perspective, offering high-quality equipment and technology solutions at competitive prices, enabling telco operators to provide more affordable and accessible mobile services.

A decade later, in 2008, the government of Bangladesh unveiled a vision to transform the country into a technologically advanced nation. Huawei played a pivotal role by supporting the rollout of 3G and 4G networks, ensuring enhanced connectivity and democratising access to digital services. Quality smartphones further empowered millions of Bangladeshis to connect, learn, and innovate.

With Huawei technology, BTCL and two private NTTN companies have built robust nationwide transmission networks. Huawei has also supported ICT infrastructure projects, positively impacting people’s lives and facilitating e-governance services.

With the first 5G trial in 2018 driver by Huawei, Bangladesh entered the 5G era in December 2021, and Huawei proudly assisted in making the country one of the few in the world to launch 5G. In 2022, Bangladesh emphasised advanced solutions and deeper technological integration focusing citizens, governance, economy, and society.

In this journey toward smart solutions, cloud computing and AI have become essential. Huawei introduced these technologies in Bangladesh, expanded human resources to support technical and service needs, and partnered with local firms to provide convenient services and payment options—creating new growth opportunities for local industries.

Huawei Cloud powers smart classrooms, data centers, and other solutions across universities, hospitals, and companies. It also supports digital finance systems in leading organisations, including bKash and various banks.

Recognising that power is critical for digital advancement, Huawei has promoted sustainable energy in Bangladesh. Its solar solutions provide reliable energy for digital networks while reducing the nation’s carbon footprint. In 2020, country’s largest solar power plant that time in Mymensingh uses Huawei’s smart photovoltaic (PV) solution, connected to the national grid. Huawei also delivers rooftop solar solutions across industries, supporting the government’s renewable energy targets of 30% by 2030 and 40% by 2041.

Huawei invests heavily in talent development programs such as Seeds for the Future, Women in Tech, and the Huawei ICT Competition, providing opportunities for Bangladeshi youth and women to learn, grow, and advance in technology.

For more than 27 years, Huawei’s motto in Bangladesh has been: “In Bangladesh, for Bangladesh.” The achievements mentioned here are just a few highlights. Huawei acknowledges the trust, support, and guidance of the Bangladesh government, partners, vendors, media, and customers, as well as the dedication of its employees in contributing to the ICT and telecom sector.

Looking ahead, Huawei remains committed to realising the intelligent Bangladesh vision, continuing as a trusted partner providing innovative products, solutions, and services—driven by more than 20% of its revenue invested in research and innovation.

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Lin Hai (Haven) is Member of the Board of Directors at Huawei South Asia