The spectrum renewal process for the country's three major mobile operators has hit a standstill. While the government has set a revenue target of Tk21,238 crore, excluding taxes and VAT, for a 20-year renewal period, operators have refused to agree to the proposed high interest charges and the extended term, halting negotiations.

Disagreement Over Long Tenure and Interest Rates

According to sources familiar with the matter, the operators have formally objected to the 20-year duration and the high interest rates attached to the payment schedule. These two conditions have emerged as the primary obstacles to finalizing the renewal agreement. The anticipated revenue from this process was expected to flow into the state exchequer, but the operators' reluctance has put those plans on hold.

One-Month Extension Granted

In response to the deadlock, the regulatory authority and the government have granted the operators a one-month extension to make their final decision. The move comes after the previous deadline passed without a resolution. Stakeholders now expect the operators to clarify their position within the new timeframe.

Uncertainty Over Revenue Collection

Industry observers note that the collection of the substantial expected revenue from the spectrum renewal now faces significant uncertainty. A prolonged negotiation process could impact the government's broader fiscal planning. However, no official alternative proposal or revised fee structure has been announced by the authorities so far.