After being launched in 2018 with high expectations, Bangladesh’s first satellite, Bangladesh Satellite-1, had been incurring losses for several consecutive years. However, in the 2024–25 fiscal year, the satellite has made a profit for the first time achieved even by using only half of its total capacity.
The state-owned Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL), which operates the satellite, has posted a net profit of 38.35 crore taka in the recently concluded fiscal year. With this, the company has overcome the persistent losses of previous years. The audited financial report was approved at the company’s board meeting on December 1.
The data indicates that the company is gradually finding its market. Compared to last year, revenue increased by 9.24%, reaching 187.07 crore taka. The main sources of income are bandwidth sales to television channels, radio stations, DTH operators, the armed forces, and various government and private organizations. Out of the satellite’s 40 transponders, 26 are currently active commercially.
BSCL’s Managing Director and CEO, Imadur Rahman, said, “We have taken several initiatives to sell unused capacity at home and abroad.”
He added that a separate commercial team has been formed, investments have been made to improve service quality, and through strict discipline in expense management, improved efficiency, and operational control, the company has stabilized.
Even so, BSCL is currently using only 50% of the satellite’s capacity. Imadur Rahman said, “Globally, a satellite is considered successful when 80% of its capacity is utilized. Our goal is to reach that level.”
Becoming an authorized reseller of Starlink could be a major opportunity for the company. Imadur Rahman believes that if managed properly, this partnership could further strengthen BSCL’s overall business position.
Several factors contributed to this turnaround in the current year. BSCL has made an operating profit of 2.61 crore taka for the first time. Additionally, income from FDRs and bank deposits increased the non-operating profit by 58%, reaching 58.06 crore taka, which largely contributed to the net profit. The company charges monthly fees for transponder and bandwidth usage, depending on the band and type of service.
Beyond broadcasting services, BSCL is expanding into satellite-based data connectivity, maritime and aviation communication, emergency communication, and customized solutions for government and private clients. Officials say this diversification is crucial for creating a sustainable revenue base.
To enhance long-term capacity, BSCL has strengthened collaborative relationships with universities, research institutions, and technology companies. The goal is to develop skilled satellite engineers and space technologists.
BSCL was established in 2017 under the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications and began full commercial operations after the satellite’s launch in 2018.
Its next goal is already on the horizon. The government is conducting a feasibility study for Bangladesh Satellite-2, which could support advanced technologies in weather forecasting, agriculture, disaster management, remote sensing, and national security.
