Asia-Pacific FWA Subscriptions to Hit 50 Million by 2031
The region is turning to 5G-based wireless broadband to bypass fiber infrastructure constraints by 2031.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Telecommunications
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Fixed wireless access (FWA) subscriptions in the Asia-Pacific region are projected to reach 50 million by 2031. This forecast reflects a shift toward using 5G to deliver broadband without the need for traditional fiber infrastructure in underserved areas.
Why it matters
The deployment of 5G-based home broadband enables connectivity in rural and remote regions where laying physical cable is cost-prohibitive. This technology supports increasing demand for cloud applications, remote work, and streaming services across the region.
The Asia-Pacific FWA sector is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 12.5% between 2026 and 2031. This figure is measured against the current total of 28 million established connections across the region.
The players
U Mobile
A Malaysian telecommunications operator leveraging 5G infrastructure to expand regional broadband coverage.
MyRepublic Indonesia
An internet service provider in Indonesia utilizing wireless alternatives to extend fiber-equivalent speeds.
AIS
A Thailand-based telecommunications firm focused on integrating wireless home broadband into its 5G network portfolio.
One NZ
A New Zealand telecommunications company deploying wireless solutions to serve customers outside of traditional fiber footprints.
The details
Fixed wireless access uses 5G cellular networks to transmit high-speed data to a dedicated home receiver, bypassing the need for physical fiber-optic cables to the building. This architecture allows operators to rapidly scale broadband services in dense or rural areas by repurposing existing mobile spectrum. The technology relies on a point-to-multipoint signal distribution, where a central tower sends data to customer premises equipment (CPE) mounted at homes or businesses.
Timeline
2026: APAC fixed wireless connections total 28 million.
2031: Regional FWA subscriptions are projected to hit 50 million.
The Tech Race
This growth forecast follows the trend established in GlobalData's 2031 Asia-Pacific telecommunications market outlook. The shift underscores a broader industry race to prioritize wireless last-mile connectivity over the capital-intensive deployment of underground fiber networks.
Users in underserved areas can expect improved access to high-speed internet for remote work and education as 5G coverage expands over the next five years. Availability depends on local carrier deployment of 5G infrastructure within specific regional zones.
The takeaway
The trajectory of 5G-based home broadband suggests that wireless access will become the primary bridge for digital inclusion in the Asia-Pacific region. Interested parties should watch for annual infrastructure rollout updates from local carriers in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Further reading
For broader trends in infrastructure, see our latest coverage on Telecommunications.
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