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Viettel launches 5G network in Laos

VGP - Telecom giant Viettel plans to roll out fifth generation (5G) technology in Laos, its third overseas launch of the service after Myanmar and Cambodia.

October 11, 2019 4:30 PM GMT+7

Accordingly, Star Telecom (Unitel), in which Viettel owns a 49% stake, will become the first operator to offer the 5G technology in the country.

In February this year, Unitel was a pioneer in introducing eSIMs to the Lao people, helping the country rank 7th out of 10 ASEAN member states in terms of advanced telecommunications services.

Unitel has been active in Laos for 13 years and is now the biggest network operator here with over 3 million subscribers, which accounts for 56% of the country’s telecom market.

Viettel’s Myanmar unit, Mytel, tested its 5G broadcast in Yangon in August, while its unit in Cambodia, Metfone, did so in Phnom Penh in July.

Viettel, the largest network operator in Viet Nam, also tested its 5G broadcast in Ho Chi Minh City last month with plans to launch the technology commercially next year.

5G is said to offer speeds 100 times faster than 4G, which is primarily used for smartphones and other similar devices. 5G is also expected to support new applications like remote medical procedures and autonomous driving.

Founded in October 2009, the Viettel subsidiary operates across all 17 provinces and cities in Laos and has led the market for eight consecutive years.

In addition, it is the Lao Government’s partner in implementing the country’s key e-government systems./.

By Vien Nhu