The global Radio Access Network (RAN) market showed signs of stabilization in 2025 after several years of decline, according to a new report from Dell’Oro Group. Stronger than usual seasonal demand in the fourth quarter helped the industry close the year with stable revenue performance, signaling a shift in market momentum following significant losses between 2022 and 2024.
The research firm’s preliminary findings indicate that improved regional demand, easier comparisons, and a weaker US dollar contributed to the improved sentiment in the global RAN market. However, the short-term outlook remains cautious, with the RAN market expected to remain mostly flat in 2026.
Market Stabilization After Multi-Year Decline
“Taking into consideration that the RAN market lost around a fifth of its value between 2022 and 2024, this improved stability in 2025 represents a welcome shift in market conditions,” said Stefan Pongratz, Vice President for RAN market research at Dell’Oro Group.
He noted that despite the positive shift, the firm has not made any significant changes to its near-term forecast. The RAN market is still projected to remain largely stable next year, reflecting cautious operator spending and ongoing macroeconomic pressures.
Top RAN Vendors Maintain Global Leadership
The competitive landscape remained unchanged in 2025, with the same five companies leading global RAN revenue rankings:
Huawei
Ericsson
Nokia
ZTE
Samsung
Vendor dynamics shifted during the year, with leading suppliers strengthening their positions while smaller players adjusted strategies to remain competitive.
Market Concentration Reaches 10-Year High
One of the most notable trends highlighted in the report is the increasing concentration of the RAN market. The Herfindahl–Hirschman Index reached a ten-year high in 2025, indicating a stronger dominance by major vendors.
In terms of vendor performance:
Huawei and Nokia gained market share.
Ericsson and Samsung maintained stable positions.
ZTE experienced a decline in RAN revenue share.
This consolidation trend suggests that scale, portfolio breadth, and long-term operator relationships continue to shape vendor success.
Long-Term Outlook Remains Modest
Despite improved stability, the fundamental drivers of the RAN market remain unchanged. Dell’Oro expects the market to grow at a modest 1 percent compound annual growth rate between 2025 and 2030. For 2026, the short-term outlook remains largely unchanged, with total RAN spending expected to stay flat as operators balance network investments with cost discipline and evolving 5G deployment priorities.
BABURAJAN KIZHAKEDATH