Asia-Pacific’s mobile operators are rapidly decommissioning 2G and 3G networks to pave the way for advanced 4G and 5G services, according to GlobalData. This transition is not merely a technological upgrade but a strategic move to enhance competitive dynamics and support AI-driven networks and digital infrastructure, crucial for the region’s economic growth.
GlobalData’s Asia-Pacific Total Mobile Broadband Forecast reveals that 2G and 3G service penetration was already low in 2025, at 6% and 2% respectively, and is expected to decline further by 2030. In contrast, 4G and 5G services have seen significant uptake, with penetration rates of 56% and 63% respectively in 2025.
Several countries are leading this shift. In India, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea have already shut down their 3G networks, whilst in Australia, Telstra, Optus, and TPG completed their 3G shutdowns in 2024. Singapore’s Singtel, M1, and StarHub followed suit, and New Zealand finalised its 3G shutdowns in early 2026.
Kantipudi Pradeepthi, a Telecom Analyst at GlobalData, stated, “The decommissioning of 2G and 3G networks will allow the mobile service markets in the region to fully benefit from improved connectivity, capacity, and innovation potential of 4G and 5G services.”
This strategic shift is expected to unlock new revenue streams across sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare, ultimately strengthening Asia-Pacific’s digital competitiveness and fuelling sustainable economic growth.
