Mobile investment needs in Europe
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High-quality mobile connectivity is vital for Europe to achieve its broader digital goals and build a sustainable and prosperous society. However, over the past 15 years, the market and regulatory environment in Europe has been a key factor in mobile network investment per subscriber in the region being consistently lower than in high-income countries outside Europe. As a result, 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. This found that mobile operators in Europe will need to invest an additional €200 billion over the next decade, in addition to the expected €270 billion required just to maintain the standard technology upgrades and replacement cycle.

This latest research from GSMA Intelligence outlines the three major areas where reform is required to align the investment environment in Europe with that of global mobile leaders: in-market consolidation, effective spectrum management and addressing asymmetrical regulation. 

Report details

Mobile investment needs in Europe
Pages
26
Format
PDF
Released
MAY 2026

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