Mobile operators in Vietnam are set to launch the country’s first 3G services this year. According to a Vietnam News Agency report, Vietnam Post and Telecommunication Group (VNPT) – which runs networks for local mobile firms MobiFone and Vinaphone, Vietnam’s second and third largest operators, respectively – said it was on track to switch on 3G services later in the year. “Vietnam’s telecom market expects to reach a turnover of US$6-7 billion in 2010, which promises a huge market for mobile service providers,” said a member of the management board of VNPT.

The winners of the four 3G licenses available in Vietnam are set to be announced soon. Last year, the Vietnam News Agency reported that at least seven operators had met the Ministry of Information and Communications requirements to enter the bidding process: Viettel, MobiFone, Vinaphone, SPT, EVN Telecom, Hanoi Telecom and GTel. Vietnam currently trails neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia in the roll-out of 3G services.