Smarter spectrum policies could ease Europe’s mobile investment needs, new GSMA report finds

Mobile operators in Europe are paying much more for spectrum than they did a decade ago, and it is holding back network investment, according to new analysis from the GSMA. The report says spectrum costs have tripled in ten years, tying up capital that could otherwise support 5G standalone rollouts and upgrades to mobile infrastructure.

The GSMA argues that policy changes around how governments price and assign spectrum could unlock up to €30 billion in additional investment. Lower upfront fees, more predictable licensing terms and a focus on long-term network quality rather than short-term auction revenue are highlighted as ways regulators could help operators invest more in coverage and capacity across Europe.