The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has warned that Thailand’s mobile spectrum could run out by the end of the year, posing a risk to internet speeds and network stability.
Projections indicate that Thailand’s demand for spectrum will reach 615 megahertz (MHz) in 2025. Without additional spectrum auctions, the country risks experiencing slower internet connections and unreliable mobile signals. Currently, Thailand holds about 620 MHz of spectrum dedicated to mobile services.
If licenses that are due to expire had not been re-auctioned, the available spectrum would decline to only 500 MHz—significantly below the forecasted demand, resulting in a shortfall of over 100 MHz. This deficiency could lead to diminished network performance, including unstable voice calls, slower internet speeds, streaming disruptions, and lag during online gaming, especially during peak usage times.
Data shows that internet usage in Thailand has steadily increased—from an average of 25.45 GB per user in 2022 to an expected 27.20 GB this year—and spectrum demand has risen accordingly, from 539 MHz to an estimated 615 MHz.
The NBTC stated that it will continue to manage spectrum resources effectively and plans to auction off additional bands set to expire, aiming to keep pace with the country’s growing demand.