Vietnam’s leading mobile operators—Viettel, VNPT, and MobiFone—are accelerating their 5G expansion, deploying a total of 11,000 base stations throughout the country. This ambitious rollout, which accounts for approximately 7.7% of Vietnam’s existing 4G infrastructure, now brings 5G connectivity to around 26% of the population. It’s a tech treasure trove unfolding, one that promises to enhance how millions of Vietnamese connect and interact.
Viettel, the nation’s largest operator, is at the forefront of this 5G race. With about 6 million 5G subscribers already on board, the company aims to boost this figure to 10 million by year’s end. Chairman and Director General Tao Duc Thang revealed plans for an additional 20,000 5G base stations in 2025, significantly enhancing data transmission speeds over two-fold to accommodate evolving, data-hungry applications.
VNPT’s mobile arm, VinaPhone, is also making strides, currently boasting approximately 3 million active 5G users. The company is focusing its network expansion efforts in provincial centers and bustling public venues like airports and parks, aligning with the country’s digital transformation initiatives. Collaborations with global giants such as Nokia and Ericsson are set to explore innovations in data transmission and artificial intelligence platforms, broadening the horizons of Vietnamese telecommunications.
MobiFone, with around 2.5 million 5G subscribers, is working diligently to improve service in major urban areas and key provincial hubs. Their ambitious plans include deploying an additional 10,000 base stations, aiming for full coverage across all communes in the near future.
The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) is pushing for the commercial launch of nationwide 5G services this year. Their ambitious goal? To reach 99% coverage by 2025, ensuring a minimum data speed of 100 Mbps, revolutionizing connectivity for businesses and consumers alike.
Operators are also positioned to benefit from the National Assembly’s Resolution 193, which allows telecom companies to receive subsidies covering 15% of equipment costs if they install and activate at least 20,000 base stations by the end of the year. The urgency to blanket Vietnam in digital connectivity is palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
What is the significance of the 5G rollout in Vietnam?
The 5G rollout is pivotal for Vietnam as it enhances connectivity and supports the country’s digital transformation efforts, impacting how millions of people engage with technology across various sectors.
How many 5G subscribers does Viettel currently have?
Viettel currently serves around 6 million 5G subscribers and is targeting to increase this number to 10 million by the end of the year.
What incentives are telecom operators receiving for expanding 5G coverage?
Under Resolution 193, operators can receive subsidies covering 15% of their equipment costs if they successfully install and activate at least 20,000 base stations by year-end, incentivizing rapid expansion.
