The global MVNO landscape, 2012–14
This insight is open to all subscribers and registered users, or available by completing the form.
Mobile network operators (MNOs) host 943 Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and 255 MNO sub-brands, as of May 2014. This represents a total of almost 1,200 mobile service providers worldwide hosted by MNOs, up from 1,036 in 2012, according to GSMA Intelligence.
Our research shows that MVNOs remain most prevalent in mature markets where penetration (based on connections) has surpassed 100%. Europe is home to more than two thirds of global MVNOs (579), followed by the Americas (128) and Asia (79). By contrast, the MVNO sector remains in its infancy in African markets with just eight MVNOs across the region.
GSMA Intelligence has identified eight separate categories of MVNOs, namely discount, telecom, media/entertainment, migrant, retail, business, roaming and M2M. As in 2012, ‘discount’ and ‘telecom’ MVNOs are the most prominent types of operation, accounting for 46% of the global MVNO market, while 19% are owned by companies that come from adjacent industries (e.g. retailers, banks, TV or media organisations), leaving 34% of the market to specialised providers focused on segments such as business, migrant, M2M and roamers.
Report details
The global MVNO landscape, 2012–14
Download the report
Complete the form to get instant access to this content. For easier access in the future, you can register for a free account here.
By submitting this form, you agree that your email address and related activity on the platform will be processed for the purpose of generating and providing the requested report. Your data will be shared with GSMA Intelligence for this purpose. For more information, please see the GSMA Intelligence Privacy Policy.
Report details
The global MVNO landscape, 2012–14
Download the report
Complete the form to get instant access to this content. For easier access in the future, you can register for a free account here.
By submitting this form, you agree that your email address and related activity on the platform will be processed for the purpose of generating and providing the requested report. Your data will be shared with GSMA Intelligence for this purpose. For more information, please see the GSMA Intelligence Privacy Policy.
Related research
The Mobile Economy Eurasia 2026
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 Mobile Economy Latin America 2026
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.
Mobile investment needs in Europe
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.
Authors
How to access this report
Annual subscription: Subscribe to our research modules for comprehensive access to more than 200 reports per year.
Enquire about subscriptionContact our research team
Get in touch with us to find out more about our research topics and analysis.
Contact our research teamMedia
To cite our research, please see our citation policy in our Terms of Use, or contact our Media team for more information.
Learn more- 200 reports a year
- 50 million data points
- Over 350 metrics
How can we support you?
Get in touch
Contact the GSMA Intelligence support team for help with your account, subscriptions, or access to reports and insights.
Newsletter
Subscribe to the GSMA Intelligence newsletter for the latest industry news and insights, delivered to your inbox.