Telcos in APAC set to invest $259 bn on networks by 2030, mostly on 5G, GSMA

With over 1.73 billion unique mobile subscribers, mobile connectivity continues to be at the core of digital innovation in Asia Pacific, enabling a wide range of transformative technologies for individuals and enterprises, and helping governments to deliver positive impacts for society.

In 2022, mobile technologies and services generated just under 5% of Asia Pacific’s GDP – a contribution that amounted $810 billion of economic value added.

Key trends shaping the mobile ecosystem in the region include 5G monetisation, the rise of generative AI, the shift to circularity, consolidation to drive scale and efficiency, and fintech.

Looking forward, 5G will underpin much of the innovation and new services on mobile-based platforms in the coming years, helped by the rapid rollout and adoption of the technology in the region.

Maximising growth and innovation in the region will require policymakers to take action to rebalance the digital ecosystem and create fairer conditions for mobile operators. This will ensure that operators invest in resources to build out remaining 4G infrastructure, as well as 5G networks, at scale and pace and introduce new network services that will enable the digital economy in the coming decades.

CT Bureau