Brian Jeffrey
Transition from 2G Technology in Vietnam
The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has initiated Circular 43/2020, which became effective on July 1, 2021. This regulation prohibits the manufacture and sale of devices that rely solely on 2G technology in Vietnam.
Starting September 15, 2024, devices that only support 2G will not be able to connect to any mobile networks. However, devices equipped with both 2G and 4G technology will continue to function normally. The complete phasing out of the 2G network will follow a structured timeline set by the MIC.
In late 2023, authorities in Ho Chi Minh City, in conjunction with the Thu Duc City People’s Committee, conducted checks on mobile phone retailers and found no shops still selling 2G-only phones.
Valuing Radio Frequencies
The radio frequency spectrum is a crucial national resource, and its availability is limited. To promote the development of the 5G network and higher-value telecommunications services, it’s essential to reclaim less valuable frequency bands and reallocate them. Thus, the discontinuation of 2G technology was a necessary step.
According to the latest statistics from the Authority of Telecommunications, as of the second quarter of 2024, there were 330,054 subscribers using 2G-only devices in HCM City. This represents about 2.37 percent of the total 13,919,712 subscribers.
Many of the users relying on 2G devices are elderly individuals or residents in rural and remote regions, making the transition to new technology possibly challenging for them.
Community Impact and Support Initiatives
While the move to phase out 2G may impact the community, the overall repercussions are expected to be minimal.
Looking ahead to early 2024, the HCM City Department of Information and Communications, together with the Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs, suggested policies to assist low-income households in accessing communication devices and mobile services, aligning with the city’s poverty guidelines. These initiatives are anticipated to be finalized by April 30, 2025.
The major mobile service providers in Vietnam are also rolling out attractive offers to facilitate the migration from 2G to 4G. For example, Viettel is providing financial assistance to users transitioning from 2G-only phones to smartphones.
