GSMA: European Mobile Manifesto 2030

A new report from the GSMA and Europe’s leading mobile operators outlines a strategic vision for Europe’s mobile connectivity industry, calling for key policy reforms to ensure that a European digital economy, underpinned by strong, sustained network innovation, can re-establish its leadership in the global tech race by 2030.

Europe finds itself at a critical juncture, facing increasing global competition, rising trade barriers and a fight for technological supremacy. The declaration highlights the key role of the mobile industry in advancing the EU's digital agenda as the continent aims to achieve universal 5G coverage by 2030. Achieving this vision requires addressing systemic challenges, including market fragmentation, regulatory barriers and investment barriers, which have inhibited the growth and competitiveness of the European telecommunications industry.

The manifesto outlines several strategic areas of action, highlighting the importance of next-generation connectivity, digital innovation and green transformation. It showcases successful initiatives across Europe, from smart factories and digital toolkits for SMEs to pioneering projects in smart agriculture and urban management, demonstrating the potential of the mobility industry to drive economic growth, sustainability and social benefits.

The declaration calls on EU policymakers to adopt a new digital infrastructure framework to promote investment, innovation and harmonize digital markets. Recommendations include addressing the fragmentation of the telecommunications market, implementing a more investment-friendly spectrum policy, narrowing the regulatory gap between different digital service providers, and updating historically based rules to reflect current realities.