세계의 통신용 블록체인 시장 규모는 2024년 10억 7,010만 달러에 달했습니다. 향후 IMARC Group은 2033년까지 시장 규모가 348억 달러에 달해 2025년부터 2033년까지 47.2%의 CAGR을 기록할 것으로 예상하고 있습니다. 현재 북미가 시장을 독점하고 있으며, 2024년에는 37.4% 이상의 큰 시장 점유율을 차지했습니다. 이 시장은 통신사업자 간 네트워크 보호 및 사용자 정보 보호에 대한 요구 증가, 농업, 헬스케어, 제조 분야에서의 사물인터넷(IoT) 기기 활용률 증가, 비용 절감 및 비용 효율성에 대한 수요 증가 등을 배경으로 꾸준한 성장세를 보이고 있습니다.
안전하고 투명한 통신 네트워크에 대한 수요 증가, 5G 기술 도입 확대, 통신 분야에서의 부정행위 감소에 대한 니즈 증가가 세계 시장을 주도하고 있습니다. 블록체인은 분산형 위변조 방지 시스템을 가능하게함으로써 보안을 강화하고, 데이터 유출 및 부정 액세스 등의 문제를 해결합니다. 또한, 사물인터넷(IoT) 기기의 보급과 원활한 데이터 교환의 필요성이 통신 분야에서의 블록체인 채택을 더욱 촉진하고 있습니다. IoT Analytics의 2024년 보고서에 따르면, 2023년 말까지 연결된 IoT 기기는 총 166억 개로 2022년 대비 15% 증가할 것으로 예상됩니다. 보고서는 2024년에는 13% 더 성장해 연말에는 총 188억 달러에 달할 것으로 예측했습니다. 또한, 2030년까지 IoT 커넥티드 디바이스의 총 수가 400억 개로 증가할 것이라는 예측도 나왔습니다. 규제 준수 요건과 효율적인 과금 시스템 추진도 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다. 또한, 통신사들의 블록체인 솔루션에 대한 전략적 제휴와 투자는 블록체인 솔루션의 관련성을 강조하고 있으며, 차세대 통신 서비스와 업무 효율화를 실현하는 중요한 수단으로 자리매김하고 있습니다.
미국은 주요 지역 시장으로 부상하고 있으며, 주로 교통 인프라 현대화를 위한 연방정부 및 주정부 차원의 정책이 그 원동력이 되고 있습니다. 주 간 통행료 징수 시스템 간의 상호운용성 추진은 첨단 ETC 기술의 채택을 촉진하고 있습니다. 또한, 현금 없는 거래가 확산되고 비접촉식 결제를 선호하는 소비자들이 늘어나고 있는 것도 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다. 또한, 유료도로 건설 및 유지관리에 있어 민관 파트너십의 채택이 증가하고 있는 것도 ETC 시스템의 보급을 확대하고 있습니다. 도시화와 인구 증가로 인해 고속도로 인프라에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있으며, 도로 정비에 필요한 자금을 조달하기 위한 효율적인 요금 징수의 필요성이 높아지고 있습니다. 또한, 지속가능성 목표가 톨게이트에서 차량의 공회전 및 배출가스를 줄이는 ETC 시스템 도입을 촉진하고 있습니다.
보안 및 데이터 프라이버시 강화
블록체인 기술은 통신사의 보안과 데이터 프라이버시를 다루는 방식을 근본적으로 바꾸고 있습니다. 블록체인의 비중앙집권적이고 불변하는 특성으로 인해 소비자 데이터, 거래, 기밀 정보가 안전하게 저장됩니다. 데이터 유출이 점점 더 흔해지면서 통신사들은 자사 네트워크를 보호하고 사용자 정보를 보호하기 위해 블록체인에 주목하고 있습니다. 보고서에 따르면, 인도의 데이터 침해 평균 비용은 2024년 사상 최고치인 1억 9,500만 인도 루피에 달했습니다. 이러한 보안 강화는 고객의 신뢰를 높일 뿐만 아니라 통신사가 일반 데이터 보호 규정(GDPR), 중앙 소비자 보호국(CCPA) 등 엄격한 데이터 보호 규정을 준수하는 데에도 도움이 됩니다. 또한, 블록체인의 투명성을 통해 사람들은 자신의 데이터를 더 잘 통제할 수 있게 됩니다. 사람들은 자신의 정보에 대한 접근을 허용하거나 취소할 수 있으며, 무단 데이터 공유의 위험을 줄일 수 있습니다. 통신사들은 이러한 이점을 활용하여 경쟁이 치열한 시장에서 차별화를 꾀하고, 프라이버시와 보안을 우선시하는 사람들을 끌어들이고 있습니다. 데이터 유출이 증가함에 따라 통신 사업에서 블록체인 솔루션에 대한 수요가 전 세계적으로 증가하고 있습니다.
비용 절감 및 업무 효율화
통신사들은 업무 효율화와 비용 절감을 위해 블록체인 기술 도입을 늘리고 있습니다. 블록체인의 분산형 원장 시스템은 청구, 결제 등 다양한 프로세스에서 중개자를 필요로 하지 않습니다. 스마트 컨트랙트를 통해 이러한 업무를 자동화함으로써 통신사업자는 기존 방식에 따른 관리 오버헤드 및 오류를 크게 줄일 수 있습니다. 또한, 블록체인은 거래의 실시간 검증을 용이하게 하여 보다 신속하고 정확한 결제 프로세스를 가능하게 합니다. 이는 사용자 만족도를 향상시킬 뿐만 아니라 수익의 누수를 줄일 수 있습니다. 또한, 통신 사업자는 블록체인을 통해 보다 효율적인 공급망 관리의 혜택을 누릴 수 있으며, 장비와 서비스의 적시 조달 및 배송이 보장됩니다. 또한, 블록체인은 로밍 및 상호연결 계약과 같은 통신 파트너 간의 복잡한 계약 관리를 단순화합니다. 스마트 컨트랙트는 자동으로 조건을 강제할 수 있기 때문에 분쟁이나 업무의 혼란을 줄일 수 있습니다. 통신사업자들이 경쟁력 강화와 운영비 절감 방안을 모색하는 가운데, 블록체인은 이러한 목표를 달성할 수 있는 강력한 도구로 등장해 업계 전반의 보급을 촉진하고 있습니다.
사물인터넷(IoT) 활용 확대
사물인터넷(IoT) 기기의 보급이 시장 성장을 견인하고 있습니다. 농업, 헬스케어, 제조업을 포함한 산업 전반에 걸쳐 IoT 디바이스의 수가 증가함에 따라 안전하고 효율적인 데이터 교환 인프라의 필요성이 가장 크게 증가하고 있습니다. 블록체인 기술은 IoT 데이터 관리 및 통신을 위한 분산형 변조 방지 플랫폼을 제공합니다. 씨게이트 테크놀러지 PLC는 2020년에는 전 세계적으로 약 47제타바이트의 데이터가 생성된 해이며, 2025년에는 약 163제타바이트까지 증가할 것으로 예상하고 있습니다. 이러한 장치에서 얻은 데이터의 무결성을 유지하고, IoT 센서가 생성하는 정보의 신뢰성을 높이는 데 도움이 됩니다. 이는 원격 환자 모니터링, 자율주행차, 공급망 관리 등 데이터의 정확성이 중요한 애플리케이션에서 매우 중요합니다. 통신사들은 블록체인 기반 IoT 연결 솔루션을 제공함으로써 이러한 흐름에 편승하고 있습니다. 이러한 솔루션은 IoT 서비스의 안전한 디바이스 온보딩, 데이터 공유, 소액결제를 가능하게 합니다. 블록체인과 IoT의 통합을 통해 통신 사업자들은 신뢰할 수 있고 안전한 IoT 통신에 대한 수요 증가에 대응할 수 있게 되었으며, 이는 통신 산업에서 블록체인 기술의 채택을 촉진하고 있습니다.
The global blockchain in telecom market size was valued at USD 1,070.1 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 34,800.0 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 47.2% during 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 37.4% in 2024. The market is experiencing steady growth driven by the growing need to safeguard networks and protect user information among telecom operators, the rising utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in the agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors, and the escalating demand for cost reduction and cost-efficiency.'
The global market is driven by increasing demand for secure and transparent communication networks, the growing adoption of 5G technology, and the rising need for fraud mitigation in the telecom sector. Blockchain enhances security by enabling decentralized and tamper-proof systems, addressing issues such as data breaches and unauthorized access. Additionally, the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the need for seamless data exchange further fuel blockchain adoption in telecom. By the end of 2023, connected IoT devices totaled 16.6 billion, up 15% from 2022, and this was according to the report of 2024 from IoT Analytics. The report predicted a further 13% growth in 2024, with a total of 18.8 billion by the end of the year. Projections also revealed that by 2030, the total number of IoT-connected devices could rise to 40 billion. Regulatory compliance requirements and the push for efficient billing systems also contribute to market growth. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and investments by telecom companies in blockchain solutions underline their growing relevance, positioning it as a key enabler of next-generation telecom services and operational efficiency.
The United States stands out as a key regional market, primarily driven by federal and state-level policies aimed at modernizing transportation infrastructure. The push for interoperability among tolling systems across states is fostering the adoption of advanced ETC technologies. The increasing prevalence of cashless transactions and consumer preference for contactless payments have also contributed to the market growth. Furthermore, the rising adoption of public-private partnerships for toll road construction and maintenance is expanding the deployment of ETC systems. Urbanization and population growth are placing greater demands on highway infrastructure, driving the need for efficient toll collection to fund road improvements. Additionally, sustainability goals are encouraging the implementation of ETC systems to reduce vehicle idling and emissions at toll plazas.
Enhanced security and data privacy
Blockchain technology is fundamentally altering how telecom companies handle security and data privacy. The decentralized and immutable nature of blockchain ensures that consumer data, transactions, and sensitive information are stored securely. With data breaches becoming increasingly common, telecom operators are turning to blockchain to safeguard their networks and protect user information. According to reports, the average cost of a data breach in India reached an all-time high of INR 195 Million in 2024. This rising security not only enhances customer trust but also helps telecom companies comply with stringent data protection regulations, such as general data protection regulation (GDPR) and central consumer protection authority (CCPA). Moreover, the transparency of blockchain enables people to have more control over their data. They can grant or revoke access to their information, reducing the risk of unauthorized data sharing. Telecom operators are leveraging these advantages to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market, attracting people who prioritize privacy and security. As data breaches are increasing, the demand for blockchain solutions in telecom is rising around the world.
Cost reduction and operational efficiency
Telecom companies are increasingly adopting blockchain technology to streamline their operations and reduce costs. The decentralized ledger system of blockchain eliminates the need for intermediaries in various processes, including billing and settlements. By automating these operations through smart contracts, telecom operators can significantly reduce administrative overhead and errors associated with traditional methods. Moreover, blockchain facilitates real-time verification of transactions, enabling faster and more accurate billing processes. This not only improves user satisfaction but also reduces revenue leakage. Telecom providers can also benefit from more efficient supply chain management through blockchain, ensuring the timely procurement and delivery of equipment and services. Additionally, blockchain simplifies the management of complex agreements among telecom partners, such as roaming and interconnection agreements. Smart contracts can automatically enforce terms and conditions, reducing disputes and operational disruptions. As telecom companies are seeking ways to enhance their competitiveness and cut operational costs, blockchain emerges as a powerful tool to achieve these goals, driving its adoption across the industry.
Expanding use of Internet of Things (IoT)
The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices is propelling the growth of the market. As the number of IoT devices is growing across industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing, the need for a secure and efficient data exchange infrastructure is becoming paramount. Blockchain technology provides a decentralized and tamper-resistant platform for IoT data management and communication. Seagate Technology PLC estimated that 2020 was the year when data globally was generated at approximately 47 zettabytes and will grow to about 163 zettabytes in 2025. It helps in maintaining the integrity of data obtained from such devices and also enhances the credibility of the information being generated by the IoT sensors. This is crucial in applications where data accuracy is critical, such as remote patient monitoring, autonomous vehicles, and supply chain management. Telecom operators are capitalizing on this trend by offering blockchain-based IoT connectivity solutions. These solutions enable secure device onboarding, data sharing, and micropayments for IoT services. By integrating blockchain with IoT, telecom companies position themselves to meet the growing demand for reliable and secure IoT communication, thus driving the adoption of blockchain technology in the telecom industry.
Infrastructure providers stand as the largest component in 2024, holding around 62.4% of the market. This can be attributed to their critical role in delivering the foundational technologies that enable blockchain integration. These providers offer essential hardware, software, and cloud-based solutions to support blockchain networks within telecom operations. Their offerings help establish robust and scalable blockchain platforms, ensuring seamless connectivity, data security, and high transaction speeds. As telecom companies increasingly adopt decentralized systems for fraud prevention, billing management, and secure communication, the demand for infrastructure solutions continues to rise. Additionally, the expansion of 5G networks and IoT connectivity further amplifies the need for advanced blockchain infrastructure, solidifying the dominance of infrastructure providers in driving innovation and adoption in the telecom industry.
Large enterprises lead the market with around 71.7% of market share in 2024. Large enterprises in the telecom sector have the financial resources and operational scale to invest in and implement blockchain solutions effectively. They often face complex challenges related to security, data management, and operational efficiency due to their extensive consumer bases and global operations. Large enterprises leverage blockchain to enhance security, streamline billing and settlement processes, and improve consumer trust. They have the capacity to undertake comprehensive blockchain projects and collaborations with other industry leaders, making them the primary contributors to the growth of the blockchain in the telecom market.
OSS/BSS processes lead the market with around 50.3% of market share in 2024 due to their pivotal role in managing operational efficiency and business workflows. Blockchain technology enhances OSS (Operational Support Systems) and BSS (Business Support Systems) by providing secure, transparent, and immutable records, reducing errors in billing, provisioning, and fraud detection. Telecom operators leverage blockchain to streamline processes such as inter-carrier settlements, identity management, and real-time monitoring, ensuring greater accuracy and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, blockchain integration addresses challenges such as revenue leakage and complex multi-party transactions. As the telecom sector embraces digital transformation, the need for innovative solutions to optimize OSS/BSS processes drives this segment's growth, making it a cornerstone of blockchain applications in telecommunications.
In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of over 37.4% due to early adoption and a strong presence of key players. The advanced telecom infrastructure in the region and commitment to technological innovation make it a fertile ground for blockchain applications. In North America, blockchain is widely used for secure data management, identity verification, and enhancing consumer trust. The presence of major telecom companies and favorable regulatory environments is propelling the growth of the market.
United States Blockchain in Telecom Market Analysis
In 2024, the US accounted for around 77.10% of the total North America blockchain in telecom market. The US market has well established telecom players including Comcast, AT&T, Verizon and more, which has been a major driving factor in the market. Moreover, these telecom operators are embracing blockchain to enhance security, mitigate fraud risks, and ensure transaction integrity, especially in identity management and secure payment systems. For instance, according to Communications Fraud Control Association (CFCA), telecommunications fraud impacted companies with a 12% increase in fraud loss globally in 2023 as compared to 2021 which is equating to an estimated USD 38.95 Billion. Owing to such frauds, telecom operators are researching blockchain to enable them to better manage the volumes of data developed so accurately with reduced errors while increasing the transparency in the storage and sharing of data. The increased adoption of blockchain with 5G infrastructures helps in managing network slicing, data privacy, and the distribution of resources, hence serving the deployment of 5G efficiently. In fact, CTIA indicated that 5G launched in 2018 covered 330 Million Americans. As a result, telecom firms are leveraging blockchain to automate service-level agreements and billing systems through smart contracts, thereby making service provision seamless and transparent. Telecom providers are also using blockchain to manage international roaming and billing in an efficient manner, which is creating a trustworthy environment between operators and customers and thus promoting cross-border telecom services.
Asia Pacific Blockchain in Telecom Market Analysis
Asia Pacific region has large telecom market. Telecom operators in the region are also expanding blockchain usage to facilitate more secure and efficient mobile payment systems, enabling direct peer-to-peer transactions and reducing payment processing costs. According to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), digital payments which also includes mobile payments in India increased to reach USD 162.4 Million transactions in 2023. Additionally, telecom providers are utilizing blockchain to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations. The PIB reports that TSPs block 45 lakh fake overseas calls using Indian phone lines every day. Also, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued an advisory warning about an increase in scam calls where fraudsters impersonated officials. Such rising telecom frauds project the importance of blockchain in the telecom industry, thereby driving the market in Asia Pacific.
Europe Blockchain in Telecom Market Analysis
In European countries, the blockchain in the telecom market is significantly influenced by stringent regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation. Moreover, it has been reported that blockchain has the potential to save the telecom industry a whooping USD 8 Billion annually by reducing fraud and administrative overheads. For instance, AAG's article shares that in 2023, 32% of UK companies experienced a cyber incident, with the number jumping to 59% for medium firms and 69% for bigger ones. Owing to such advantages, leading telecom companies in the region are driving the integration of blockchain in the telecom industry, which in turn is driving the regional growth in the market.
Latin America Blockchain in Telecom Market Analysis
Telecom companies are utilizing blockchain to establish secure and immutable digital identities, enhancing the user verification process for services including mobile number portability and mobile payment. With the ongoing rollout of 5G, telecom providers are incorporating blockchain to manage the complexities of 5G networks, including authentication, security, and decentralized management of high-speed data flows. For example, the GSMA predicts that by 2030, 5G would make up about 60% of all mobile connections in Latin America. In line with this, telecom companies are leveraging blockchain for decentralized and secure solutions to expand network coverage in underserved rural areas, making connectivity more affordable and efficient which in turn is also driving the adoption of blockchain to manage the rising data in the telecom industry.
Middle East and Africa Blockchain in Telecom Market Analysis
In the MEA region, telecom companies are continuously using blockchain to improve cybersecurity frameworks, reducing the risks of data breaches and securing customer information in an increasingly connected ecosystem. In this regard, companies are using blockchain to support IoT network management, providing secure device connectivity, and ensuring scalable, low-cost infrastructure for the growing IoT market across the region. In addition, the technology is being used to safeguard mobile top-up services and protect fraud and authenticity for prepaid transactions, which have huge acceptance in the region. According to the Saudi Arabian government, in 2021, electronic payment means were used to process 84% of all business payments within Saudi Arabia. Thus, the rising mobile payments has facilitated the market growth in the region and is expected to continue the trend in the near future.
The competitive landscape of the blockchain in telecom market is highly innovative and strategic in action by key players. Companies have been focusing on developing advanced blockchain solutions tailored to address challenges in the telecom sector, including fraud prevention, secure sharing of data, and real-time processing of transactions. Collaborations and partnerships are not uncommon, allowing firms to pool their expertise and expand their presence in the market. Many heavy investments are being witnessed in research and development, looking towards creating superior blockchain scalability and interoperability for telecom applications. Besides, companies are starting pilot projects and combining blockchain with new technologies such as 5G and IoT to deliver end-to-end solutions. The race to protect intellectual property rights and offer customized BaaS platforms is also defining the competitive landscape.