GSMA: Benefits of 5G deployment in Russia

GSMA releases new report 'The benefits of 5G deployment in Russia'. 5G, the next generation of communications technology, will account for nearly 20% of connections in Russia by 2025. However, a new GSMA study finds that deployment would be faster and cheaper if the government adopted international safety guidelines for radio spectrum.

The Russian Federation government is rolling out its Digital Economy Program to create a digital ecosystem and fully leverage the potential of the Internet of Things. 5G will form the backbone of this infrastructure with its faster mobile broadband speeds.

However, there are two obstacles that could hinder the deployment of 5G: the government approval process and the rules for the placement and operation of transmitting radio facilities. The latter, combined with restrictions on exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), could increase operating costs tenfold.

In March 2020, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection updated its international safety guidelines for all frequencies used by mobile services. The guidelines took into account 20 years of additional health research and found no identified health risks for anyone, including children, using mobile phones or living near base stations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of high-speed connectivity in supporting Russia's economy, especially education, healthcare and manufacturing. Countries such as Poland and Lithuania adopted updated international security guidelines this year. If leaders make reforms now, Russia has a key opportunity to stimulate growth.

The deployment of 5G networks is crucial for the future competitiveness of the Russian Federation, given their importance to economic and social development. Early adopters of 5G and related technologies are likely to stimulate a virtuous cycle, as high levels of 5G adoption can attract developers and allow for innovative services and solutions.

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