The Mobile Economy Latin America 2021

The mobile industry in Latin America continues to play a crucial role in the response to Covid-19. Mobile networks have enabled social and economic activities to continue. People have relied on the internet to stay connected to friends and family, access educational and health services, and work remotely. This has driven mobile data traffic to new levels. Networks have held up well, reflecting sustained investment from operators over the past few years.

The number of unique mobile subscribers in Latin America will reach nearly 450 million by the end of 2021, increasing to 485 million by 2025 (73% of the population). Between 2020 and 2025, mobile operators in Latin America will invest more than $73 billion in their networks, with an increasing share of this 5G-related.

The pandemic has emphasised the need for connectivity and the critical role of mobile technology. Now is the time for governments to reassess the business and regulatory environment for mobile services in order to accelerate investment and innovation for a connected society.