Study on Policy Measures to Promote Broadband Infrastructure in Underserved Areas
| Published Date | February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Type of Publication | Reports |
| Publication Under | SOM Steering Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation (SCE), Telecommunications and Information Working Group (TELWG) |
| Accessed | 0 |
| Pages | 226 |
| Download publication | Download |
Description
This study assesses broadband development across 21 APEC economies, focusing on bridging the digital divide in underserved areas. Utilizing a data-driven methodology, the project groups economies into four geographic clusters—large landmass, archipelagic, mountainous, and urban—to tailor policy recommendations.
Key findings reveal significant disparities in infrastructure and affordability, highlighting that regulatory reform and demand-side inclusion are as critical as physical deployment. The report analyzes successful interventions, such as Australia’s NBN and Korea’s PPP models, to identify replicable best practices.
The primary outcome is a comprehensive policy-service toolkit and a four-step decision framework designed to guide policymakers in selecting appropriate technologies and funding models. Ultimately, the publication provides an evidence-based roadmap for APEC economies to accelerate broadband adoption, ensuring equitable digital participation and sustainable economic growth.