Ericsson runs 3G trial

Swedish technology provider Ericsson is conducting 3G mobile network trials in Bangladesh using sites and transmission networks of three operators in the country, GrameenPhone, Telecom Malaysia International (Bangladesh) (AKTEL) and Warid Telecom International Bangladesh. Ericsson officials said that the pilot project, which is already operational at two sites in Dhaka and at Jahangirnagar University, would be completed in October. According to TeleGeography’s GlobalComms database, Bangladesh has not yet set a timetable for 3G licensing, although in June a representative of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) was quoted by local press as saying that UMTS concession could be issued by the end of the year.