SMS Guidelines for Bangladesh: Compliance, Message Length, and More
Understanding the regulations and technical requirements for sending SMS messages to Bangladesh is crucial for compliance and successful delivery. This guide covers SMS guidelines in Bangladesh, including two-way SMS support, message length, and compliance considerations.
Locale Overview
Bangladesh, located in Asia, uses the ISO code "BD" and a mobile country code of 470. When sending messages from outside the country, use the dialing code +880.
Two-Way SMS Support
Two-way SMS is not supported in Bangladesh. This means replies to your SMS messages are not possible, and services requiring two-way communication will not function.
Number Portability
Bangladesh offers number portability, allowing users to keep their mobile numbers when switching service providers. This ensures consistency for businesses as customers change network operators.
Concatenated Messages
Concatenated message support is available in Bangladesh. This process splits long messages into smaller segments, reassembling them on the recipient's device. Note that some sender ID types may not support concatenation, and splitting/rejoining can vary based on character encoding.
Message Length
The maximum message length in Bangladesh depends on encoding. GSM-7 encoding typically allows up to 160 characters per SMS. Longer messages are split into segments and reassembled on the recipient's device.
MMS Support
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is not supported in Bangladesh. Instead, MMS messages are converted to SMS with an embedded URL, enabling recipients to view multimedia content via a web link.
Sending SMS to Landline Numbers
Sending SMS to landline numbers in Bangladesh is not possible. Attempting this will result in a 400 response with error code 21614 from the Sent REST API. The message is not logged, and your account is not charged.
Compliance Considerations
To comply with local laws and regulations, adhere to these best practices when sending SMS messages to Bangladesh:
- Obtain opt-in consent: Secure explicit consent from users before sending communications, especially marketing or non-essential messages.
- Respect local time zones: Send messages during the recipient's daytime hours unless urgent.
- Support STOP/HELP messages: Ensure your SMS campaigns support commands like HELP or STOP, provided in the recipient's local language.
- Avoid contacting users on do-not-call lists: Respect any do-not-call or do-not-disturb registries.
By following these guidelines, your SMS campaigns will be compliant and effective in reaching your target audience in Bangladesh.
FAQs
Is two-way SMS supported in Bangladesh?
No, two-way SMS is not supported in Bangladesh.
Can SMS be sent to landline numbers in Bangladesh?
No, SMS cannot be sent to landline numbers in Bangladesh. The Sent REST API will return a 400 response with error code 21614.
Is number portability available in Bangladesh?
Yes, number portability is available, allowing users to retain their mobile numbers when switching service providers.
For more information on SMS regulations, visit the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission.