HKT boosts mobile backhaul to 25 Gbit/s at Hong Kong's key event venues

　　HKT has upgraded its mobile backhaul infrastructure to 25 Gbit/s at several major event venues across Hong Kong, with the goal of improving the network experience of subscribers attending large-scale events.

　　According to HKT, upgrading from 10 Gbit/s to 25 Gbit/s greatly improves the reliability of the 5G network in high-density areas like the Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong Coliseum and Hong Kong Velodrome.

　　Mobile networks often face heavy demand during large-scale events. HKT stated that the upgrade enables the network to support a significantly greater number of users simultaneously with reduced congestion and slowdowns, while allowing decent Internet speeds, fewer dropped calls and smoother streaming, even in crowded areas.

　　The increased capacity also reduces latency, which improves responsiveness for real-time activities such as video calls, online gaming and AI.

　　"Our 25Gbit/s backhaul upgrade enables our network to support the increasing use of data-intensive applications, such as AI-powered services, AR/VR experiences, and large-scale IoT deployments," said Bruce Lam, HKT's CEO of the consumer division, in a statement.

　　"This advancement delivers better digital experiences and enriches everyday life for our customers. It also lays a strong foundation for Hong Kong’s next-generation smart city development," he added.

　　Supporting Hong Kong's mega-event economy

　　HKT's decision to increase the capacity of its mobile backhaul infrastructure at major event venues is in line with the government's policy to improve 5G connectivity at these locations and promote the city's "mega-event economy."

　　In 2024, the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) announced that mobile network operators (MNOs) were actively setting up 5G radio basestations at major public event venues and nearby government sites to implement a policy initiative that was introduced the previous year.

　　Major public event venues undergoing enhancement of 5G network capacity in the first phase include Central Harbourfront Event Space, Hong Kong Coliseum, Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) and Victoria Park.

　　The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and OFCA have been co-ordinating with MNOs, relevant venue managers and government departments to streamline the approval and installation procedures. This, it is hoped, will facilitate the prompt installation of 5G radio basestations by MNOs at these venues.