Vietnam is set to phase out its 2G network by September 2024, affecting over 10 million users still relying on these older mobile phones. Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has officially announced the roadmap to switch off 2G mobile services. The 2G handset users need to switch to new devices before the deadline of September 16, 2024.
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2G Users on Networks
According to the data, as of June 2024, Viettel leads with the highest number of 2G subscribers, approximately 7.44 million. Vinaphone follows with 1.3 million, while MobiFone has around 1 million 2G users. Vietnamobile and virtual network operators (MVNOs) collectively account for roughly 500,000 and a few tens of thousands of 2G subscribers, respectively, the Ministry said.
Telecom Providers Reducing 2G Users
Viettel plans to reduce its 2G subscriber base by 1.5 million in the near future, aiming to lower the total to around 5.6 million by the end of July. By the September 15 deadline, Viettel aims to cut down the number to approximately 2.2 million. MobiFone is also actively promoting the 2G shutdown through various channels. Despite these efforts, MobiFone anticipates around 700,000 2G users will remain by September 2024 due to their locations in remote and rural areas. VinaPhone has also ensured steps to propagate the 2G shutdown policy, especially in areas with a high number of 2G users.
Regulatory Framework
From a regulatory perspective, the Vietnam Telecommunications Authority has reiterated its stance on not reallocating the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands unless companies present plans to cease services for devices supporting 2G GSM technology by September 2024.
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Phase Out 3G Services by 2028
Furthermore, the Vietnam Telecommunications Authority (Ministry of Information and Communications) announced that after discontinuing 2G, Vietnam will shut down 3G services by September 2028 to allocate resources for new technologies.
Viettel has already shut down 3G, while other operators like VinaPhone and MobiFone will stop 3G services in areas where there are no 3G subscribers or traffic.
