#USA #Barcelona #Infrastructure #GSMA #Mobile Operators

Mobile Operators Lead Investment for Mobile Internet Infrastructure

In a groundbreaking report from the GSMA and global management consultancy Kearney, it was revealed that mobile network operators (MNOs) are responsible for a staggering 85% of worldwide investments in mobile internet connectivity infrastructure. This finding emphasizes the crucial role that these operators play in funding the networks that underpin modern digital economies across the globe.

The report entitled ‘Mobile Infrastructure Investment Landscape’ was launched during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the largest mobile technology event in the world. It highlights that annual investments in mobile internet infrastructure, excluding end-user devices, have reached an impressive $127 billion, with MNOs alone contributing $109 billion. Notably, this substantial investment occurs despite MNOs reaping lower economic benefits compared to other digital ecosystem players involved in this critical infrastructure. For instance, contributions from MNOs vastly exceed those from cloud service providers and content and application providers (CAPs).

John Giusti, GSMA's Chief Regulatory Officer, commented, "This report clearly illustrates that mobile network operators are the backbone of the internet economy, financing the vast majority of infrastructure that facilitates modern digital life. While others invest in selective parts of the global connectivity infrastructure, their contributions are just a fraction of what MNOs spend to build and maintain networks that support everything from online banking and remote work to digital entertainment. This study decisively shows that if governments want to unlock the full potential of their digital economies, they must prioritize policies that create a positive investment environment for MNOs."

A Call to Action for Policy Changes

The report arrives at a critical time when governments worldwide are seeking to enhance digital connectivity and stimulate economic growth through advanced networks, including 5G and future mobile technology generations. The findings present a snapshot of the investment landscape, revealing essential insights such as:

• - Mobile networks are indispensable for digital progress.
• - Investment in infrastructure must occur within a suitable regulatory environment.
• - Core and access networks require significantly greater investment than backbone infrastructure.

To support the ongoing expansion and innovation of mobile networks, the GSMA urges governments to adopt forward-looking regulatory frameworks that encourage investment in mobile infrastructure. By streamlining spectrum policies and creating a fair and sustainable financial environment for operators, governments can facilitate a growth-oriented infrastructure landscape.

For further details and to access the complete report, visit GSMA's official site. The essential insights from this report underline that mobile investment is key to ensuring robust digital economies and expanding access to modern connectivity. As we progress into an increasingly digital world, the role of mobile operators in advancing internet infrastructure cannot be overstated; they are indeed the unsung heroes of our digital age.