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As part of the national digital infrastructure transformation, the Vietnam Telecommunications Authority, part of the Ministry of Information and Communications, held a critical meeting with major telecom companies to outline the steps for the 2G network shutdown, with Minister Nguyen Manh Hung calling for weekly meetings to address transition challenges.
As of June 2024, the subscriber distribution for 2G networks is led by Viettel with approximately 7.44 million users. Vinaphone follows with about 1.3 million 2G subscribers, while MobiFone has around 1 million. Vietnamobile and various virtual network operators (MVNOs) collectively account for roughly 500,000 and several tens of thousands of 2G users, respectively. All these users are required to transition to new devices before the deadline of September 16, 2024.
To manage this transition, telecom providers are implementing various strategies:
Nguyen Trong Tinh, Deputy General Director of Viettel Telecom, announced that the company plans to reduce its 2G subscriber base by 1.5 million before the end of July, aiming for approximately 5.6 million by that time. Viettel aims to cut this number further to around 2.2 million by the September 15 deadline, after which it will disconnect the remaining 2G users. Viettel’s strategy includes blocking 2G devices from the network and setting up mobile conversion points.
MobiFone has been actively promoting the shutdown through various channels, including media announcements and ringback tone notifications. Despite these efforts, MobiFone anticipates about 700,000 2G users will still be on the network by the deadline, particularly in remote areas.
VinaPhone has focused on internal communication to ensure its staff and customers are well-informed about the shutdown. Information and materials about the end of 2G services are available at all VinaPhone transaction points, particularly in regions with high numbers of 2G users.
The Vietnam Telecommunications Authority has made it clear that the 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands will not be reallocated unless telecom companies submit plans to cease 2G GSM services by the September 2024 deadline. The Ministry of Information and Communications is encouraging the migration of 2G users to smartphones, with exceptions made for 4G feature phones based on individual customer needs.
In the run-up to the deadline, telecom companies are expected to continue blocking non-compliant 2G devices from accessing their networks. The authority also urges companies to share best practices, communication materials, and user guides to help facilitate a smooth transition for affected users.
To assist users in making the switch, community service providers like TOUCH Community Services are offering counselling and intervention programmes for those who may be struggling with social media addiction. Additionally, the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS) provides specialised assessment and intervention services.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) are working on guidelines for device usage and screen time to ensure consistent advice across healthcare settings and pre-schools. These initiatives aim to promote better digital habits and support families in managing their children’s screen time effectively.
Vietnam’s approach to phasing out 2G services involves a combination of regulatory measures, telecom company strategies, and government support, all aimed at modernising the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring a smooth transition for users.
The phase-out is part of Vietnam’s plan to enhance its digital infrastructure by achieving full mobile broadband coverage across national highways, expressways, and railways by 2025. The initiative will expand 5G technology and improve user experiences with expected download speeds of at least 100 Mbps in all provinces, high-tech zones, and major transport hubs.
Vietnam plans to provide fibre-optic access to all 27 million households by 2025, connecting 2.7 million households annually. The Vietnam Telecommunications Authority will oversee this effort as part of the 2021-2030 digital infrastructure strategy.
