The GSMA and GTI have published a new white paper that argues that governments need to craft more supportive policies to foster the development of large-scale 5G networks. To that end, the paper specifically asks legislators to work with mobile operators to overcome the infrastructural and investment challenges they are likely to face.
“Governments are essential partners for the mobile industry, facilitating the right conditions for operators to make the necessary investments in 5G and propel its commercial use,” said GSMA Chief Regulatory Officer John Giusti. “As pioneering countries have shown us, more supportive policies are key to 5G, enabling the digital transformation of societies and economies.”
So what kinds of policies should countries be considering? According to the white paper, governments will be well-served if they give mobile operators spectrum access at affordable prices, and if they lower taxes (or offer tax relief) to encourage investment. The GSMA and GTI also recommend policies that promote industrial collaboration, and the use of public infrastructure to accelerate the deployment of 5G technologies.
The conclusions in the white paper are based on an analysis of the plans of some of the countries that are the farthest along in their 5G transformation, a list that includes China, Finland, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea. If other countries follow suit, Giusti suggests that 5G could add $2.2 trillion to the global economy between 2024 and 2034.
“5G will play a foundation role in the era of intelligent connectivity,” said GTI Chairman Craig Ehrlich. “We are happy to see proactive policies on national broadband strategy, and believe the government’s support is vital to the success of 5G to benefit the whole of society.”
The GSMA predicts that mobile operators will invest $1.1 trillion in the next five years, with much of that earmarked for 5G development. 5G is expected to account for 20 percent of all connections by 2025, with high adoption rates in Asia, Europe, and North America.
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