Canadian telcos must boost network investments: report

Canadian Telecom Companies Urged to Boost Network Investments as Data Demand Skyrockets

November 13, 2023 — As Canada braces for an unprecedented surge in data consumption, a new report presented at the Canadian Telecom Summit has sounded the alarm: Telecom companies must ramp up their network investments, and fast.

According to the report by PwC, released on November 7, data consumption in Canada is on track to double by 2027. This surge presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the nation’s telecom providers, which must now scale their infrastructure to meet the growing demand.

The forecast comes at a time when the Canadian telecom sector is already grappling with the rapid evolution of digital technology and the increasing dependence of consumers and businesses on reliable, high-speed internet services.

Industry experts argue that the anticipated increase in data usage isn’t just a byproduct of more people using smartphones or streaming services. It’s also driven by the burgeoning sectors of the Internet of Things (IoT), telecommuting, and a general shift towards more connected lifestyles.

“The rise in data consumption is a clear indicator of the digital transformation that Canada is undergoing,” said a telecom analyst. “It’s imperative that our network infrastructure keeps pace, not only to support current needs but to lay the groundwork for future technologies like 5G.”

The report highlights the need for substantial investments in both urban and rural areas. While cities often get the lion’s share of attention, rural communities in Canada also require robust connectivity to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to digital services.

Telecom companies are now faced with the task of strategizing their investments to maximize efficiency and coverage. This includes upgrading existing infrastructure and potentially deploying new technologies to handle the increased load.

As the Canadian economy continues to integrate deeper into the digital world, the pressure on telecom companies to act swiftly and decisively is mounting. The coming years will be crucial in shaping Canada’s digital landscape and ensuring that the nation remains competitive in an increasingly connected global economy.