Networks want 3g deposits redemption before time

There are four 3G network operators in Vietnam. They are looking at an early repayment of their license fee deposits so as to aid themselves in rolling out funds for the deployment of their respective networks.

Viettel, VinaPhone, MobiFone, and the EVN Telecom/Hanoi Telecom joint venture constitute the group of networks that are looking to deploy 3G; having deposited a collective amount of $391.87 million to the government as license fees; to be refunded once the respective 3G networks are deployed. Although Viettel, Vinaphone and MobiFone have had 50% of their deposits repaid to them, they are pushing for an early redemption of the remaining amounts.

As per sources, the 3G networks are experiencing a cash crunch in their attempt at expanding their networks. They are betting on license fee deposits repayment to fund the building of their respective 3G network infrastructures.

30,334 BTS stations for 3G services constitute the collective number, built by the network operators while close to 8 million customers have been signed up so far.

A Viettel official has been reported to have said that 80 per cent of the funds for rolling out 3G services were financed by way of bank loans; as it waits for its share of deposit repayment.

The Department of Planning has been advised by the Minister of Information and Communications, Le Doan Hop to step up the disbursement for 3G service projects.

Tags: 3G network, Vietnam Telecom, Vietnam telecom maket