Interfax-China reports that China Unicom has restructured its operations to create 28 new departments and a unit responsible for the operator’s forthcoming 3G network. The 3G subsidiary will reportedly focus on mobile network construction and maintenance. The report adds that the establishment of the new departments and appointment of their respective directors marks the completion of the company’s restructuring project. In addition to creating new departments, China Unicom also established 18 manufacturing subsidiaries.

China Unicom is expected to receive a commercial nationwide 3G license based on WCDMA technology. Rival China Mobile – the world’s largest operator by subscribers – is currently trialling TD-SCDMA services in 10 cities, and has said it will increase this to 38 by the end of next-June. China Mobile is expected to be granted a commercial nationwide TD-SCDMA license for 3G use. Meanwhile China Telecom is expected to receive a 3G license based on CDMA2000 1xEV-DO technology.