Although WiMAX faces several key challenges in the Asia Pacific market, its subscriber base will grow from more than 80,000 in 2005 to more than 3.8 million by 2009, reports In-Stat. In 2009, Asia Pacific WiMAX subscribers will account for 45% of the world total, the high-tech market research firm says.

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"Issues that may hamper the adoption of WiMAX networks in the region include spectrum regulation that varies significantly across countries and competition on mobility from other technologies," said Bryan Wang, an In-Stat content manager based in Asia. "Meanwhile, fixed wireless operators are not very enthusiastic about WiMAX after having been burned by last-mile promises in the past. Vendors need to recruit a few high-profile operators to build real-world success stories early on."

A recent report by In-Stat, "WiMAX in Asia," found the following:

• South Korea is estimated to contribute more than 40% of the regional WiMAX equipment revenue in 2009, followed by China with 34% and Japan with 17%.
• South Korea also will boast the highest WiMAX service revenue in 2009, due to its sophisticated broadband content/application industry, which results in higher ARPU.
• By 2009, Asia Pacific WiMAX equipment spending will account for $1.98 million.