China Ten Times Faster in Developing 5G Wireless Network than the USA

China has surpassed the USA in the race to build the next generation of wireless communication, known as 5G, and risks losing potential economic benefits, according to a report by consulting firm Deloitte published on Tuesday.

China currently has ten times more locations that can support 5G communication than the USA. In just three months of 2017, Chinese telecommunications companies created more locations than the USA did in the past three years, the Deloitte Consulting report states.

The first countries to embrace the next generation of wireless communication will achieve “disproportionate gains,” as 5G ushers in an era of significant economic potential, the report notes.

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China has outpaced the USA by $24 billion since 2015 and has built 350,000 new telecommunications towers, while at the same time, the USA has built fewer than 30,000.

The report also indicates that a possible difference lies in the fact that the installation of equipment necessary for 5G transmission is 35 percent cheaper in China than in the USA.

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This report comes after the U.S. Federal Communications Commission announced new auction rules for high-bandwidth frequency spectrum that is expected to be used in the future of 5G.

Dan Littmann, CEO of Deloitte, stated in the report that the United States, in order to remain competitive and eventually become a leader, should carefully assess the race for 5G and take swift action.

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The report also states that the USA could still catch up. It is recommended that the USA adjust its policies to reduce the time required for implementation, encourage operators to collaborate, and implement data statistical databases and best practices.