Global telecom brand values hit $741.8b as Thai rankings diverge

AIS gains ground whilst True Dtac loses value.

The combined value of the world’s top 150 telecoms brands reached $741.8b in 2026, with Thailand’s sector showing mixed performance as AIS gained brand value whilst True Dtac declined, according to Brand Finance.

AIS remained Thailand’s highest-ranked telecoms brand globally at 46th in the Telecoms 150 2026 ranking. Its brand value rose 9% to $3.2b, supported by stronger revenue, subscriber growth, and improved brand strength metrics, whilst its Brand Strength Index rose to 83.7 out of 100.

Brand Finance said AIS also benefited from expansion following its acquisition of Triple T Broadband, which strengthened its position in Thailand’s fixed broadband market.

True Dtac ranked 67th globally, with brand value falling 6% to $1.6b and its Brand Strength Index slipping to 67.4. The firm linked the weaker showing to operational challenges and service disruptions.

Brand Finance said Thai operators are balancing continued network improvements with pricing discipline as the sector adjusts to consolidation and changing customer expectations around value and network reliability.

Deutsche Telekom remained the world’s most valuable telecoms brand, whilst Viettel Group ranked as the strongest.