Summary
- 1.2 billion people remain without mobile internet access.
- Region faces US$184 billion investment gap by 2030.
- Affordability and digital skills remain major barriers.
KUALA LUMPUR, October 31 — About 1.2 billion people across developing Asia-Pacific remain offline despite 98% of the population living within 4G network coverage.
According to a new GSMA report commissioned by the Asian Development Bank. The report found that mobile internet adoption increased from 62% in 2020 to 71% in 2025.
But affordability and limited digital skills continue restricting access. Achieving universal connectivity by 2030 requires US$316 billion in investment, leaving a US$184 billion funding gap.
GSMA urged governments to strengthen digital inclusion policies, improve smartphone affordability and expand network infrastructure.
