Upper 6 GHz Band Could Add $27 Billion to India’s GDP by 2030, Says GSMA

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Global telecommunications body GSMA has highlighted the crucial role that the widespread availability of 5G spectrum could play in bolstering India’s economy.

According to their recent findings, the inclusion of the upper 6 GHz band in the country’s spectrum roadmap could contribute nearly $27 billion to India’s GDP by 2030.

The Need for a Clear Spectrum Roadmap

“India’s 5G momentum has gained global attention and respect. For it to continue, and for the full realisation of the Indian government’s digital ambitions, a clear roadmap to deliver spectrum for growing mobile demand is needed. The upper 6 GHz band must be part of that roadmap and bringing it into commercial use will require close collaboration between government and the mobile industry,” said Luciana Camargos, Head of Spectrum for the GSMA.

Mid-Band Spectrum’s Critical Role

The GSMA emphasized that the mid-band spectrum is essential for leading countries to meet future data traffic demands.

They underscored the necessity for a partnership between the Indian government and its mobile sector to drive the commercialization of the 6 GHz mobile spectrum, which will be pivotal for enhanced broadband and sustainable industrial development.

Analyzing the Cost-Benefit of the 6 GHz Range

In its latest report, GSMA advised India to assess the cost-benefit of utilizing the 6 GHz range. The country should weigh the impact of reduced mobile performance and penetration against any perceived benefits from competing uses for the upper 6 GHz band.

The organisation stressed that the 6.425-7.125 GHz range should be included in India’s spectrum roadmap to ensure its commercialisation.

India’s Rapid 5G Growth

India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing 5G markets globally, with nearly 175 million 5G connections by the end of March 2024 and significantly improved mobile download speeds. As India advances towards 5G-Advanced and beyond, the adoption and commercialisation of the upper 6 GHz band will be critical to meeting future data traffic demands.

International Agreements and Future Spectrum Needs

International agreements on the use of the upper 6 GHz band were established at last year’s World Radiocommunication Conference.

GSMA highlighted that by 2030, a total of 2 GHz of mid-band spectrum per market will be necessary to meet the demands of citizens and businesses, with dense cities like Mumbai potentially requiring up to 2.5 GHz.

The GSMA’s call to action reinforces the need for strategic planning and collaboration to fully harness the potential of 5G technology for India’s digital future.