ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Size (2024 - 2029)

The ASEAN MVNO market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing digitalization and high internet and smartphone penetration in countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam. The market's expansion is supported by MVNOs offering specialized services without the need for their own infrastructure, effectively acting as sub-brands for host operators. Despite challenges such as the reluctance of major mobile network operators to host MVNOs, the market is poised for growth, particularly with advancements in 5G technology and network functions virtualization. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated digital connectivity, boosting data consumption and positively impacting the telecommunications sector across the region.

Market Size of ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Industry

ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Summary
Study Period 2019 - 2029
Base Year For Estimation 2023
Market Size (2024) USD 2.82 Billion
Market Size (2029) USD 3.83 Billion
CAGR (2024 - 2029) 6.33 %
Market Concentration Low

Major Players

ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Analysis

The ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market size is estimated at USD 2.82 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 3.83 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.33% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is a corporation that provides mobile phone services but does not have its frequency allocation of radio spectrum or all of the infrastructure needed to perform it. A corporation with infrastructure and frequency allocations is called a "mobile network operator."

  • By concentrating on specific value propositions for specialized target customer segments, MVNOs expand the subscriber base on the network of the host operator without compromising the host's focus or brand image. In this way, the MVNO functions as a "sub-brand" for the operator and aids in providing mobile services to various demographics.
  • In ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam exhibit high internet and smartphone penetration rates. Hence, the MVNOs are growing significantly in these countries. Moreover, the countries such as Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, are adopting digitalization at a rapid pace and hence are analyzed to bolster the telecom sector and simultaneously the MVNO industry in the countries.
  • Virtualization is a 5G network architecture feature, and most may move beyond virtualization. One MVNO may operate all networks metaphorically while concurrently operating none of the networks, much like a cloud. Similar to before 4G, MVNOs could use the host operator's mobile network in the 5G era to establish their own business. However, it might be the "slice" of the virtualized core network. In the 5G era, network functions virtualization (NFV) and "slicing" can be essential for many MVNOs.
  • One of the biggest challenges for MVNO market vendors in the region is the reluctance of the MNOs to host MVNOs on their network. Currently, all major MVNO operators in the country are hosted by only the state telecom player National Telecom.
  • COVID-19 has led to an acceleration in digital connectivity in ASEAN countries, facilitating not only e-commerce but also businesses using digital technology, communications, and related services in manufacturing, retail, education, healthcare, transportation, finance, tourism, media, and entertainment. This has significantly increased data consumption during the pandemic, thus positively impacting the telecommunications sector.

ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator Industry Segmentation

Mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) are wireless service providers that do not own the wireless network infrastructure but instead buy network capacity from existing MNOs to deliver services to their users.

The ASEAN mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) market is segmented by component (data, voice) and country. The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD million) for all the above segments.

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ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Size Summary

The ASEAN MVNO market is poised for significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of digital technologies and the expansion of mobile connectivity across the region. MVNOs, which operate by leveraging the infrastructure of existing mobile network operators, are expanding their presence by targeting specific customer segments with tailored value propositions. This strategy allows them to act as sub-brands for host operators, enhancing service offerings without diluting the host's brand. Countries like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam are witnessing rapid growth in MVNOs due to high internet and smartphone penetration rates. Meanwhile, nations such as Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines are experiencing a surge in digitalization, further bolstering the MVNO sector. The transition to 5G and advancements in network functions virtualization are expected to play a crucial role in the evolution of MVNO services, enabling them to offer more sophisticated and data-centric solutions.

The competitive landscape of the ASEAN MVNO market features key players such as Feels Telecom Corporation Company Limited, Ansar Mobile Sdn Bhd, Gomo, and The Whitespace Company Ltd, among others. The market is characterized by strategic partnerships and technological advancements, such as the launch of 5G MVNO services in Singapore and the introduction of eSIMMVNO services in Thailand. These developments are supported by government initiatives aimed at promoting digital adoption and enhancing telecom infrastructure. The increasing demand for data services, driven by the proliferation of mobile connections and the rise of IoT, cloud gaming, and other digital applications, is expected to propel the MVNO market forward. As mobile operators continue to roll out 5G networks, the market for mobile broadband is anticipated to expand, offering new opportunities for MVNOs to capitalize on.

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ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Size - Table of Contents

ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market Size FAQs

The ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market size is expected to reach USD 2.82 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 6.33% to reach USD 3.83 billion by 2029.

In 2024, the ASEAN Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Market size is expected to reach USD 2.82 billion.

ASEAN MVNO Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2024 - 2029)