Vietnam now has 3G services following the launch this week of state-owned Vinaphone’s new network. AFP reports that the network is now available for three million subscribers in about 20 percent of provinces and cities around the country, with service expected to expand nationwide next year. Motorola, Ericsson and ZTE are Vinaphone’s 3G network suppliers. According to Wireless Intelligence, Vinaphone is Vietnam’s third-largest operator with 17.3 million subscribers.

Vinaphone’s launch comes only two months after Vietnam’s regulator released 3G spectrum to Viettel, Mobifone and Vinaphone, as well as a joint-venture between EVN Telecom and Hanoi Telecom. The total fees paid were VND8.1 trillion (US$450 million). Market-leader Viettel accounted for over half of the total, paying VND4.5 trillion. Viettel and MobiFone plan to launch services in December 2009, while EVN Telecom/Hanoi Telecom has been given nine months to launch services.