Harmonised spectrum for mobile services in ASEAN and South Asia: an international comparison

In this report for Axiata Group Berhad, Plum examines the state of current spectrum assignments and future spectrum plans across different regions, and highlights the issues and challenges facing countries in ASEAN and South Asia.

Spectrum assigned for mobile Axiata

We find that there is currently a shortfall of around 200 MHz assigned for mobile services in many middle and low income ASEAN and South Asia countries compared to Europe and North America.  This spectrum “divide” is likely to widen by 2020 and have significant consequences for broadband provision in urban and rural areas. To address this policy actions are required to make available more harmonised spectrum and facilitate efficient assignment of spectrum to mobile operators. here.