Report: High-capacity broadband networks gain ground across OECD
October 13, 2026



The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and connected devices is increasing demand for faster, more reliable connectivity across the OECD, according to the latest OECD Broadband Statistics. To meet these needs, OECD Member countries are upgrading digital infrastructure and shifting from expanding access to improving network performance.

Demand for high-capacity networks is reflected in the expansion of high-performance broadband offers across the OECD. Gigabit-capable subscriptions increased from 4 per cent of fixed broadband subscriptions in 2020 to 24 per cent in 2025, a sixfold increase in just five years.


Growing demand for mobile data

By 2025, mobile data use across the OECD reached 17 GB per SIM per month, up by 130 per cent from 7.4 GB in 2020, as users increasingly rely on mobile networks for data-intensive activities. The Slovak Republic saw the most significant growth at an annual rate of 42 per cent during 2024-25, from 1.4 GB to 8.2 GB. Bulgaria, Czechia, and Greece also experienced rapid annual growth (38 per cent, 37 per cent, and 36 per cent respectively). Meanwhile, Latvia (66 GB), Lithuania (54 GB), and Finland (49 GB) had the highest mobile data usage per subscription. This trend reflects growing demand for mobile data, supported by the expansion of 5G, more affordable plans and connected devices.

Fast, reliable fibre and 5G networks are powering today’s use of transformative digital technologies

As demand for reliable, high-speed connectivity grows, fibre continues to expand across the OECD. Fibre now accounts for more than half (51 per cent) of all fixed broadband subscriptions across the OECD, up from 31 per cent in 2020. This shift is taking place in a largely mature fixed broadband markets: OECD average fixed broadband penetration grew by only 2.2 per cent per year in the last 5 years between 2020 and 2025, from 33 to 37 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants.