With the government implementing NEIR to curb illegal handsets, we speak with Lang Guo, Country Manager of HONOR Bangladesh. He explains how this move protects consumers and why official devices are the safer choice.

The Daily Star(TDS): The government has recently taken stricter steps to curb the usage of unofficial/illegal handsets (NEIR implementation). How do you evaluate this move?

Lang Guo (LG): I see this as the beginning of a sustainable ‘New Era’ – one where innovation, quality and service are the core drivers of growth. With the implementation of NEIR, consumers can know for sure that they’re buying genuine, safe devices in a transparent market. It creates a level playing field that enables us to operate properly and contribute to the country’s digital growth.

TDS: How severely has the grey market impacted your potential growth, and how do you see that changing post-regulation?

LG: It’s been a real challenge. The grey market has pulled customers away from official channels and created this uneven playing field that has held us back. But with NEIR, we’re expecting things to shift. We are expecting fewer grey devices coming in, more trust and stronger demand in official channels. Overall, we expect a more stable market condition.

TDS: How does buying an official device contribute to the national exchequer compared to the unofficial market?

LG: Every official device contributes to VAT, customs duty, and taxes that go straight into supporting national development and the country’s digital infrastructure. The government can then invest in connectivity, innovation, and technology. Grey market devices skip all of these. This hurts the economy and local jobs. Compliance creates a healthy ecosystem where brands like us can invest more confidently, partners can grow, and consumers get reliable service.

TDS: What are the specific risks they face regarding data security, hardware authenticity, or after-sales support that they avoid by choosing an official unit? How do you ensure after-sales service to the customer?

LG: When you buy unofficial, you’re risking serious data security issues, potentially fake or tampered hardware, no warranty, no access to genuine parts, and unreliable software updates. All these can seriously compromise your device’s safety and lifespan. With HONOR, we have built a nationwide after-sales network with authorised service centres, original spare parts, transparent warranty policies, and continuous OTA updates.