Explore ITU's recent analytical publications on ICT price trends, affordability and their drivers. For previous editions, see the “ICT Prices – All editions" panel.
Measuring digital development: The affordability of ICT services 2024
The Measuring digital development: The affordability of ICT services 2024 report presents the current state and recent trends on the costs of fixed and mobile broadband baskets for consumers based on ITU’s ICT price data collection covering over 200 economies.
In 2024, significant progress was made in broadband affordability, with mobile broadband services becoming more accessible across most regions and income groups, with a record number of economies now meeting the Broadband Commission’s target. The affordability of ICT services improved at a rate surpassing the long-term trend, yet stark disparities persist. While mobile broadband is increasingly within reach, fixed broadband remains largely unaffordable for many, especially in low-income economies. Even where services are affordable on average, significant gaps persist within countries. Affordability continues to be a central obstacle to universal and meaningful connectivity, closely linked to weaker infrastructure, lower investment, and low income levels.
Global Connectivity Report 2025
Chapter 4: Making connectivity affordable for all of the ITU
Global Connectivity Report 2025 details how high price for ICT services and devices acts as a barrier to universal and meaningful connectivity, analyses affordability gaps both between and within countries, and explores policy levers – such as competition and cross-sectoral regulation – to improve access for low-income populations.