The global 5G industry is being shaped by an accelerating pipeline of spectrum auctions, as regulators focus on expanding capacity and coverage across mid-band and mmWave frequencies. According to the Global mobile Suppliers Association, 392 operators have launched 5G networks, marking a 14 percent increase from March 2025 and representing 44 percent of total LTE and 5G networks worldwide, GSA said.
Investment momentum remains steady, with 643 operators investing in 5G, reflecting a modest 3 percent annual growth. Meanwhile, 52 operators are planning to introduce 5G services, with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 15 percent of the global pipeline, highlighting ongoing reliance on legacy networks in the region, GSA report said.
In 2026, new commercial 5G launches include operators such as Djezzy in Algeria, Smart Axiata, Next-Gen Infraco, Al Madar, Digicel, and Babilon Mobile. In Ukraine, Lifecell, Kyivstar, and Vodafone Ukraine are piloting 5G services, while OPT New Caledonia is preparing for a commercial rollout.
Spectrum auctions are central to this expansion. Thirteen countries are preparing near-term auctions, including Japan, which plans to auction 26 GHz spectrum in early 2026, and Pakistan, targeting 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz bands. Later in 2026, the Netherlands will auction 3.40-3.45 GHz and 3.75-3.80 GHz bands, while Pakistan will conduct a second auction covering 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, 2.6 GHz, and 3.5 GHz. Panama is also planning a September 2026 auction for 2.5 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum.
Looking ahead, Hong Kong SAR and the United States are targeting auctions in late 2027 or early 2028, focusing on high-capacity bands such as 39.5 GHz to 43.5 GHz and 3.98-4.2 GHz, respectively.
Over the past year, 11 spectrum auctions have been completed globally, with an average price of $663.4 million. Sri Lanka recently concluded its auction, awarding 4×50 MHz in the 3.5 GHz band and 4×100 MHz in the 27 GHz band to Dialog Axiata and SLT-Mobitel for $33.3 million, underscoring continued demand for both coverage and high-capacity spectrum.
The expanding auction pipeline highlights how governments and regulators are laying the long-term foundation for 5G growth, even as operator investments show signs of stabilizing.
BABURAJAN KIZHAKEDATH
