Mobile operators set to Invest $25bn in developing infrastructure

The latest GSMA Intelligence report, ‘Mobile Economy Russia & CIS 2020’, forecasts that there will be 52 million 5G connections across the region by 2025, representing a 13% adoption rate. Underlying this growth is operator investments, expected to be more than 25 billion dollars in new infrastructure rollouts, of which 57% will be for high-performance 5G networks.

Other highlights from the ‘Mobile Economy Russia & CIS 2020’ report says :

· 4G became the region’s leading mobile technology in 2020 and will account for 65% of total connections by 2025

· Smartphone adoption is set to reach 81% by 2025 due to the availability and popularity of lower cost handsets

· The mobile ecosystem employed over 830,000 people in the region in 2019 and contributed $14b to public sector funding

· The CIS region will add almost 330 million new IoT connections by 2025, with smart home and smart buildings two key growth areas

As mobile operators continue to enhance connectivity – through expansion of 4G and laying the foundation for 5G – the CIS region is reaping concrete benefits in economic growth and social development through improved commerce, communication and service delivery,” said John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer, GSMA.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted, like never before, the importance of access to fast and reliable connectivity in driving a resilient and inclusive digital economy, underpinned by a wide range of digital services for individuals and businesses across the region.