According to the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), China expects over 550,000 5G base stations to be put in operation by the end of 2020. Prefecture-level cities are expected to achieve continuous outdoor connection of the 5G network within this year, with key areas in counties and townships. During the battle against the novel coronavirus, telemedicine and smart robots using 5G technology have come from trials into front-line practices, while remote office solutions and online teaching also contribute to quarantine efforts as well as the resumption of work and production. With a solid industrial foundation and maturing commercial products, the CAICT is expecting China’s 5G industry to directly create over 3 million jobs as of 2025.
CAS news release, March 5, 2020