This IDC study provides a worldwide forecast for telecommunications service provider capex covering the 2025–2029 period. The capex forecast is broken out between wireless and wireline networks with data for each one of the three main geographic regions. Capex is defined as capital spending by telcos to acquire or upgrade tangible assets (plant, property, and equipment) and intangible assets excluding telecommunications and spectrum licenses."Over the forecast period, telecom service providers will invest over $300 billion annually to enhance network performance and evolve architectures for future revenue growth. Strategic capex management practices are crucial for strengthening free cash flows and reducing capex intensity ratios," says Peter Chahal, director of Worldwide Telecommunications Insights at IDC. "Despite challenges such as tariffs and government budget cuts, telecom service providers must optimize cost structures and explore alternative wireline and wireless revenue streams to maintain financial stability and growth."
IDC Market Forecast Figure
Executive Summary
Advice for Technology Suppliers
Market Forecast
Market Context
Drivers and Inhibitors
Drivers
Enhanced 5G Services
Telco-to-Techco Transformation
Extending Digital Service Fabric with LEO Satellites
Inhibitors
The Risks of Delaying Digital Transformation for Telcos
Tariffs Impact on Global Telecom Capex
Significant Market Developments
Changes from Prior Forecast
Market Definition
Methodology
Related Research
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