Taiwanese mobile network operator (MNO) Chunghwa Telecom is aiming to boost its 5G penetration by around ten percentage points in 2023, to around 35%, the Taipei Times reports. According to the local press outlet, which cites data compiled by local telecoms regulator the National Communications Commission (NCC), the MNO’s 5G subscriptions numbered around 2.45 million at the end of 2022, representing around 25% of its overall mobile subscription base.

With regards to its expectations for future growth, Chunghwa Telecom chairman Sheih Chi-mau was cited as saying: ‘We expect 5G subscription to grow at a similar pace as last year.’ Meanwhile, to stimulate 5G adoption and to satisfy demand for emerging applications, the operator intends to increase its workforce by around 1,700 this year, with 41% of the initial hires focused on AI, cloud services, cybersecurity and data services. Of note, Chunghwa has set a mid-term goal of boosting annual revenue from each of three business areas — cloud-based services, cybersecurity and 5G-based artificial intelligence of things — to TWD10 billion (USD331 million) by 2025.