Telecom industry spending up 8.9% in 2005, up 10.2% in 2006

Total spending in the telecom industry grew 8.9% in 2005 and will grow 10.2% in 2006. According to the Telecommunications Industry Association's annual look at spending in the sector, the industry spent an estimated $856.9 bln 2004. The sale of networking equipment fell 71% from 2000 to 2003, but it is now on the rise.