Mobile industry contributes $950b to Asia Pacific economy

Sector's contribution forecast to reach more than $1t by 2030.

The mobile industry in Asia Pacific accounted for 5.6% of the region's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, contributing US$950b, according to data published by the GSMA in its "The Mobile Economy Asia Pacific 2025" report.

Forecasting the sector's growth, the GSMA report noted: "This is expected to rise to around $1.4t by 2030, equivalent to 6.6% of GDP, as the impacts of 5G and its ecosystem become more widespread across local economies.

"To fully unlock this potential, it is crucial that stakeholders across the region's digital ecosystem foster trust and ensure the sustainability of the industry."

In the GSMA's view, the key priorities for the sector include 5G monetisation; addressing the scam economy; mitigating cybersecurity threats; bridging the investment gap; balancing innovation and regulation; and effective spectrum policy.

Breaking down the industry's economic contribution in 2024, the report said: "The most significant benefits arose from productivity effects, which amounted to $560b, followed by direct contributions, which contributed $290b.

"This growth was largely driven by the adoption of 5G technology, particularly in countries such as Malaysia and India, which experienced notable 5G coverage expansion."

Source: GSMA

"Between 2025 and 2030 the mobile sector in the region is expected to grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 6.5%, surpassing the regional GDP growth forecast of around 4%," reported the GSMA based on the International Monetary Fund's regional outlook.

"Consequently, it will play a key role in enhancing productivity in the region, which has been highlighted as a critical factor in addressing slower growth trends in recent years."

The mobile ecosystem – spanning mobile operators; infrastructure and equipment; and content and services – supported approximately 16 million jobs in Asia Pacific in 2024. Of this total, 11 million people were directly employed by the industry.

According to the report, the Asia Pacific countries with the highest 5G and Internet of Things adoption in 2024 were South Korea, Australia, Japan, and Singapore. Widespread usage is expected in most nations by 2030.

Julian Gorman, Asia Pacific head at the GSMA, called mobile connectivity "the oxygen of Asia Pacific's digital transformation" that is driving economic growth, innovation, and inclusion.