Brian Jeffrey
During an auction organized by Lac Viet Partnership Auction Company on July 9, MobiFone Corporation emerged as the successful bidder for the 3,800 – 3,900 MHz frequency band, known as the C3 band.
The company expressed that advancing 5G technology is a key focus to transition from a traditional telecom provider to a technology-driven entity. They have previously conducted 5G trials in several Vietnamese regions to gather data for future network expansion strategies.
Securing the C3 band will fast-track the nationwide launch of 5G services this year for MobiFone. Their plans include improving services in major cities, airports, tourist areas, and industrial zones. To enhance 5G deployment, MobiFone will collaborate with other telecom operators for infrastructure sharing, optimizing resources to offer customers a superior 5G experience.
The 3,800-3,900 MHz band is designated for mobile information systems following IMT-2020 standards and future iterations, utilizing time division duplexing. The auction for the C3 band had a starting price of about USD 112.5 million, with bidding increments of VND 25 billion. The winning bidder will hold a license to use the frequency band for 15 years.
Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Huy Dung stressed the importance of successfully auctioning the C3 band for commercializing 5G. This marks a significant shift from traditional to digital infrastructure, positively impacting the country’s economic and social progress.
Deputy Minister Nguyen Huy Dung noted that Vietnam ranks 4th among Southeast Asian countries in terms of allocated spectrum with the addition of the C3 band, emphasizing that 2024 is set to be the year of 5G commercialization.
In previous auctions, Vietnam rose in the rankings for allocated spectrum, showing steady progress towards 5G readiness. The Ministry plans further auctions to enhance Vietnam’s standing in the region in terms of available spectrum for high-speed telecommunications services.
Deputy Minister Dung emphasized the importance of efficiently using mid-range spectrum through auctions like the C3 band to ensure multiple service providers can offer 5G broadband services in the near future, as 5G technology becomes more prevalent and cost-effective.
