GSMA Suggests Investments in 5G by APAC Telcos to Reach $331 billion Between 2020-25

Mobile operators in Asia Pacific are expected to invest over $400 billion on their networks between 2020 and 2025, of which $331 billion will be spent on 5G deployments, according to the latest Asia Pacific edition of the GSMA’s Mobile Economy series. The report shows that the region is one of the fastest-growing in the world and home to over half of the total global subscribers. “Operators in the region are investing billions in continuing deployment of 5G networks that are enabling an exciting variety of new services for consumers. This is also helping transform industry and manufacturing, and driving economic growth – which is of critical importance at this time,” said Julian Gorman, head of APAC for GSMA. “Mobile connectivity provides a positive impact on productivity and boosts GDP, and across the region, there is a need for a ‘whole of government’ approach with clear digital strategies to transform economies. As 5G becomes a reality, we call on governments and regulators to actively support a favorable business environment to encourage investment and allow operators to extend next-generation digital services to all Asia’s citizens and speed financial recovery.” The study also highlighted that the Asia Pacific region is home to some of the most advanced 5G markets in the world, with nine markets having launched commercial mobile 5G services – including Japan at the end of March – and 12 more having officially announced plans.