Digibox, a digital locker system developed by a2i's integrated eCommerce platform ekShop, was launched Tuesday in a bid to facilitate faster delivery of packages.

The locker system will provide customers with a self-service delivery location to collect and return packages.

Zunaid Ahmed Palak, state minister for ICT, inaugurated this IoT-based smart delivery solution at an event at the ICT division in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Such lockers have already been installed on Daraz's hubs in Tejgaon, Zigatola, Mohammadpur, Celebrations Point (Gulshan) and ICT Tower areas of Dhaka, and Agrabad hotel in Chattogram.

So far, in only a few weeks of operation, the system has collected and distributed more than 5,000 parcels, according to a statement.

"Digibox developed by the ekShop of a2i offers seamless last-mile delivery, storage, and pick-up experience. It champions the ICT Division's motto of 'Made in Bangladesh' for hardware and software solutions," said Palak.

"With the looming global economic crisis, we need to focus on local innovation and trade to boost our economy and reduce unnecessary foreign currency expenditure," he said.

Dewan Muhammad Humayun Kabir, project director at government programme Aspire to Innovate (a2i); Bjarke Mikkelsen, CEO of Daraz Group; and Rezwanul Haque Jami, head of digital business of a2i, were present.