From big data to 5G: Uzbekistan hosts GSMA's M360 Eurasia, signaling digital ambitions

“Our project supports ICT policy and regulation, digital skills, innovation, and cybersecurity,” said Vaina. “We work directly with ministries and regulators to create better legislation, improve market competition, and expand connectivity – especially in rural areas.”

He emphasized that connectivity is foundational: without meaningful internet access – be it mobile, fixed, or satellite – there can be no digital economy.

“We aim to bring European regulatory expertise to support independent institutions, open markets, and long-term digital growth,” he said.

According to Vaina, fostering independent regulatory bodies, encouraging market competition, and ensuring the institutional separation of business, regulation, and policymaking are critical to unlocking the region's digital potential.

“Competition leads to investment. The more competition, the more investment – and the better the quality of services. Every euro invested in telecom can generate up to €1.8 in economic return,” he noted.

While the EU brings experience, Vaina acknowledged the political and administrative diversity across Central Asia:

“We want to share our knowledge. It’s not easy – different systems, different political landscapes. But we are ready to help the countries in the region move forward more effectively.”

A platform for regional digital leadership

This inaugural M360 Eurasia event has the potential to become a lasting platform for stakeholder engagement and the advancement of sustainable digital development across the region.

According to GSMA data, mobile technology is expected to contribute $270 billion to Eurasia’s economy by 2030, amounting to 8.3% of the region’s GDP. By that time, 5G connections are projected to reach 143 million, comprising 41% of all mobile connections. As of 2024, around 164 million people – two-thirds of the region’s population – were already using mobile internet.

“It’s the first time GSMA brought this format to Uzbekistan,” Vaina said. “If it becomes a recurring event, it could position the country as a digital hub for the whole region.”

M360 Eurasia 2025 highlights the momentum behind Central Asia’s expanding digital ecosystem – and explores what’s next in the evolving world of mobile technologies.