Covid-19 and telecoms one year on: how accurate were our predictions?

Operators across Eurasia are navigating a structurally challenging environment, yet the mobile ecosystem plays a crucial role supporting resilience across the region. Mobile technologies and services generated $270 billion for the Eurasian economy in 2025, equivalent to 8.1% of GDP. The industry’s economic contribution will reach $300 billion by 2030.

The role of the mobile industry as an engine of economic development is particularly important as Latin America experiences moderate growth and persistent productivity challenges. With traditional growth drivers under pressure, digital technologies are becoming essential tools to boost competitiveness and support economic diversification. In 2025, mobile technologies and services in Latin America generated $600 billion in economic value, supported nearly 3 million jobs and contributed $50 billion in public revenues.

Many European markets are lagging behind in terms of network quality and the deployment of advanced mobile networks. To quantify the investment required for Europe to meet its 5G goals and regain its global leadership in mobile connectivity, GSMA Intelligence conducted a detailed economic modelling exercise.