Connected Industries at MWC25 Barcelona to showcase the latest innovation for industry from AI-driven aviation systems and IoT-enabled automation in manufacturing to smart city infrastructures
Ahead of MWC25 Barcelona, GSMA Intelligence has launched research highlighting a dramatic shift in the global economy, with advanced connectivity and mobile technologies to contribute $11 trillion to global GDP by 2030 – which represents 8.4% of the total. This surge represents a significant increase from the contribution of $6.5 trillion (5.8% of overall GDP) in 2024, emphasizing the growing role and exciting potential of digital technologies and enterprise transformation in reshaping industries.
GSMA Intelligence’s Economic Growth and the Digital Transformation of Enterprises 2025 report highlights manufacturing, financial services, automotive, and aviation as pivotal sectors, contributing nearly 34% of the projected $11 trillion impact by 2030. Advanced connectivity will continue to transform these industries, driving significant cost efficiencies and revenue growth globally.
Manufacturing
- Manufacturing currently accounts for 23% of global GDP, facing significant challenges including supply chain disruptions and the need to adjust to climate targets. The adoption of technologies such as IoT, robotics, and big data analytics is projected to boost the sector’s GDP by $2.1 trillion by 2030.
- By integrating advanced connectivity solutions, including 5G, the report predicts manufacturers could achieve over $400 billion in annual cost savings by 2030.
Financial services
- The financial services sector currently contributes 7% to global GDP, experiencing rapid transformation through widespread adoption of technologies including cloud computing, AI, and blockchain. This transformation will boost the sector’s GDP by nearly $900 billion by 2030.
- Next-gen connectivity enables real-time data analysis, AI integration for efficiency, and faster market launches. By 2030, this could uplift the sector’s revenue by nearly $140 billion in indirect benefits.
Automotive
- The automotive sector, contributing approximately 3% to global GDP, is transforming with connected, electric, and autonomous mobility solutions. By 2030, digital technologies are expected to increase the industry’s GDP by almost $600 billion.
- 5G will play a crucial role in smart automotive factories and autonomous vehicle operations, saving the sector an estimated $45 billion annually by 2030.
Aviation
- The aviation sector, contributing 1% to global GDP, is leveraging digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experiences. Digital transformation is expected to boost the sector’s GDP by $200 billion by 2030.
- 5G-enabled smart airport solutions, including IoT sensors and AI-powered systems, will enhance infrastructure monitoring, asset tracking, and security, potentially saving airports $10 billion annually by 2030.
Redefining connectivity with 5G
As industries worldwide undergo rapid digital transformation, 5G stands out as a key component of economic growth, with nearly 85% of enterprises rating 5G as critical to their digital transformation strategies. The report highlights that industries adopting 5G technologies experience accelerated automation, AI integration, and IoT-based solutions.
Supporting Digital Transformation with GSMA Connected Industries at MWC
GSMA Connected Industries returns to MWC25 Barcelona to showcase advanced mobile technologies in Manufacturing and Production, Fintech and Mobile Commerce, Smart Mobility, and Sports and Entertainment. The initiative brings together industry leaders to highlight how 5G, IoT, and digital solutions drive efficiency and sustainability.
Richard Cockle, Connected Industries lead at GSMA Foundry, commented: “Connected Industries at MWC provides a unique platform for businesses and technology leaders to hear directly from GSMA members about how mobile innovations and 5G applications are shaping industries, from enhanced automation to fraud prevention, smart airports, and connected vehicles.”
The GSMA also supports Connected Communities, an initiative to foster collaboration between mobile network operators and industries for digital innovation.
