Spending on fixed communication services in Thailand is projected to rise from $2.2 billion in 2024 to $2.5 billion by 2029, driven mainly by the expanding fixed broadband segment.
While fixed voice service revenue is expected to decline sharply at a CAGR of 8.6 percent due to users moving away from traditional voice services to mobile and OTT platforms, fixed broadband revenue is set to grow at a CAGR of 3.2 percent. This growth is attributed to increasing adoption of fiber-optic (FTTH/B) and fixed wireless access connections.
Fiber broadband lines, which already made up 89.2 percent of all fixed broadband connections in 2024, will continue to dominate through 2029, supported by rising demand for high-speed connectivity, government and operator initiatives to expand fiber coverage, and network improvements in urban areas, GlobalData said.
Thailand had approximately 14.7 million fixed broadband subscribers in 2023, reflecting steady growth in home internet connections. As of January 2025, around 65.4 million people in Thailand were using the internet, representing about 91.2 percent of the population. The widespread use of mobile broadband also contributes significantly to overall connectivity, with nearly all mobile connections supporting broadband services.
Thailand’s main telecom operators
Thailand’s main telecom operators are Advanced Info Service (AIS), True Corporation (formed from the True–Dtac merger), National Telecom (NT), and Thaicom.
AIS and True are the dominant players in Thailand, each investing around THB 25–30 billion towards Capex annually. AIS is focusing on expanding its 5G, fiber broadband, and digital infrastructure, with planned investment of THB 26–27 billion in 2025.
AIS is expected to maintain its leadership in the fixed broadband market through 2029, benefiting from its acquisition of 3BB and ongoing investment in expanding rural coverage, GlobalData said.
True Corporation is channeling similar investment into network integration and 5G rollout, with a 2025 Capex target of THB 28–30 billion.
State-owned NT had an initial 2024 budget of THB 6 billion, later reduced, with investments mainly aimed at upgrading fiber and Wi-Fi infrastructure.
Satellite operator Thaicom continues to secure project-based contracts, including over THB 350 million in satellite projects in early 2025.
Spectrum auction
Thailand’s telecom regulator NBTC is set to hold a major spectrum auction on June 29, 2025, offering around 450 MHz across the 850 MHz, 1500 MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2300 MHz bands. The total reserve price is approximately THB 121 billion. Only the two dominant operators, AIS and True Corporation, have confirmed participation, raising concerns about limited competition. AIS is expected to bid across all bands, while True is likely to focus on the 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz bands.
Regulatory scrutiny and a lawsuit from the Consumer Council highlight worries over market concentration and lack of support for MVNOs. The auction is seen as a key step in Thailand’s 5G and digital infrastructure development, though some high-cost bands like 850 MHz may see limited interest due to expensive technology upgrades.
Baburajan Kizhakedath
