A significant portion of Bangladesh’s LED bulb market is dominated by uncertified, low-quality products that raise concerns over consumer safety, electricity efficiency, and fair competition. Industry estimates suggest that nearly half of the country’s roughly Tk3,000 crore bulb market consists of LED bulbs lacking Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) approval.

Incidents like that of Sajib Ahmed, who purchased a Tk120 LED bulb from a roadside shop in Dhaka’s Moghbazar that failed within a month without any warranty or certification, underscore the challenges consumers face. The defective bulb bore no BSTI certification mark, manufacturing license number, warranty details, or printed price, and the shop offered no replacement or refund.

Such uncertified bulbs, often sold under local brands including Ketty, V Green, Luxury, and Welton, are typically priced significantly lower than BSTI-approved products from established manufacturers. According to Sohag, a salesperson at the Moghbazar outlet, customers are frequently attracted by the lower price tags, as certified bulbs with comparable wattage generally cost more than Tk200. Brands like Walton, Super Star, RFL, and Akij offer certified LED bulbs priced between Tk200 and Tk400 based on features and wattage.

Consumers often lack the means or knowledge to verify certification before purchase. Khairul, a buyer at Habib Super Shop in the Karwan Bazar area, noted that many do not prioritize checking for BSTI approval, partly due to the wide variety of products available and uncertainty about certification marks.

Industry insiders explain the proliferation of uncertified products as a result of supply chains involving both imported complete bulbs and components, particularly from China. Sohel Rana, chief business officer (electricals) at Walton Hi-Tech Park, estimates that 45-50% of LED lighting products—including bulbs, tube lights, downlights, smart bulbs, and floodlights—sold in Bangladesh fall into this uncertified category. These products tend to be less energy-efficient, often leading to electricity bills that are one-and-a-half to twice as high as those using certified products. Furthermore, poor-quality components contribute to flickering and unstable illumination, which can cause eye strain and headaches with prolonged exposure.

BSTI officials emphasize the importance of certification for consumer protection. Mohammad Alauddin Hossain, director at BSTI, advised buyers to purchase from authorized retailers, retain receipts, verify wattage and lumen specifications, and avoid bulbs without warranty cards or certification marks. Checking the manufacturer’s CM licence number is another recommended safeguard.

Local manufacturers, who invest heavily in quality assurance, technology, and regulatory compliance, find themselves at a disadvantage competing against uncertified imports and locally assembled products. RN Paul, managing director of RFL Group, noted that the influx of noncompliant products undermines consumer confidence in the lighting market, deters investment returns, and complicates efforts to maintain standards. He called for stricter government enforcement to curb the entry and sale of uncertified bulbs.

The LED lighting industry in Bangladesh has advanced significantly in recent years, transitioning from extensive import dependency to a domestic manufacturing base with growing capacity and technological capability. Companies like Walton emphasize ongoing research and development and adherence to both BSTI and international standards, including rigorous safety and performance testing, aimed at ensuring durable and efficient lighting products for residential and industrial use.