Maximising the socio-economic value of spectrum
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The challenge policymakers often face when it comes to radio spectrum is deciding the most efficient way to use each spectrum band to deliver the greatest socio-economic benefits overall. This report provides practical guidance for the implementation of a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) to quantify the impact of different spectrum assignment strategies.
Radio spectrum is a critical and scarce natural resource. The licensing choices made by governments and regulators impact all aspects of connectivity in a country. To facilitate the application of CBAs further, we illustrate the theory in practice by quantifying the costs and benefits of two case studies that some regulators are either currently facing or might face in the context of 5G: whether set-asides for local users should be made in prime 5G bands; and whether set-asides for new entrants are justified.
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The impact of spectrum pricing in Bangladesh
At around 16%, Bangladesh’s spectrum-cost-to-revenue ratio exceeds the Asia Pacific median (10.4%) and is twice as high as the global median (7.7%). High spectrum cost has been shown to negatively impact consumer outcomes, such as network coverage and speeds. Reducing prices by 50% would align spectrum costs closer to the Asia Pacific median at about 12% by 2035, boosting 4G speeds by 17% and enabling 99% 5G coverage, yielding a cumulative $34 billion GDP boost. Aligning costs to the global median of 8% of operators’ revenue would increase 4G speeds by 22% and accelerate 5G rollout further, generating a $45 billion GDP boost.
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Learn moreRelated research
Spectrum Navigator, Q2 2025
This quarterly series leverages the GSMA Intelligence Spectrum Navigator tool to identify key trends and insights. The report outlines the latest important developments in the spectrum world and the key trends to watch going forward.
Digital Nations 2025: Achieving the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan
Successfully realising ASEAN’s development plans requires concerted efforts by stakeholders to fully leverage the opportunities presented by digitalisation. This report highlights three principal measures to improve digital readiness: bridge the infrastructure gap, accelerate regional policy harmonisation, and leverage international cooperation mechanisms.
The impact of spectrum pricing in Bangladesh
At around 16%, Bangladesh’s spectrum-cost-to-revenue ratio exceeds the Asia Pacific median (10.4%) and is twice as high as the global median (7.7%). High spectrum cost has been shown to negatively impact consumer outcomes, such as network coverage and speeds. Reducing prices by 50% would align spectrum costs closer to the Asia Pacific median at about 12% by 2035, boosting 4G speeds by 17% and enabling 99% 5G coverage, yielding a cumulative $34 billion GDP boost. Aligning costs to the global median of 8% of operators’ revenue would increase 4G speeds by 22% and accelerate 5G rollout further, generating a $45 billion GDP boost.
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