Partnering with Qualcomm, Vietnam aims to establish itself as a leader in the global 5G space.

Vietnam is stepping up efforts to adopt Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) technology as part of its 5G strategy, aiming to create a more inclusive telecom ecosystem.

Open RAN allows multiple manufacturers and developers to participate in building and deploying 5G infrastructure, moving away from reliance on a few major telecom equipment suppliers.

This shift is expected to drive competition and innovation, with Vietnam positioning itself as a proactive player in the global 5G market.

Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung has highlighted that Open RAN is essential to achieving Vietnam’s digital independence.

"By using open technology, nations can control and trust the systems they use," he stated. He emphasized that adopting an open system for critical infrastructure, such as 5G, supports both technological independence and national security.

Open standards also enable nations to access, adapt, and build on existing technologies rather than depending on proprietary systems from foreign providers.

Viettel High Tech, in collaboration with Qualcomm, is spearheading Open RAN development in Vietnam. The companies have completed designs and are preparing to commercialize their 5G Open RAN systems.

Nguyen Minh Quang, Deputy CEO of Viettel High Tech, expressed optimism about Vietnam’s potential to lead 5G innovation in the region, saying, “Our goal is not only to support local demand but also to bring Vietnam’s telecom solutions to international markets.” Viettel has been successful in deploying Open RAN-based solutions for its 4G and 5G networks, strengthening its position as a technology innovator.

The Viettel-Qualcomm partnership aims to establish a competitive 5G ecosystem in Vietnam, allowing domestic firms to play a larger role in telecom infrastructure. Qualcomm’s advanced chip technology supports high-performance Open RAN networks, while Viettel brings expertise in network deployment and system integration.

Viettel and Qualcomm’s Open RAN products could benefit both the Vietnamese and global markets, addressing challenges of cost and interoperability in 5G deployment. The Open RAN Connect event, held in Vietnam for the first time, underscores the country's commitment to exploring Open RAN's potential and fostering international collaboration.

“Open RAN enables flexibility and cost reduction, vital as we look toward expanding 5G coverage,” noted Jeanette Whyte, GSMA's policy director for Asia Pacific, at the event.

While Open RAN has clear advantages in flexibility and cost-effectiveness, there are obstacles to its widespread adoption. As Qualcomm and other partners develop solutions to improve reliability and integration with existing infrastructure, governments worldwide are implementing policies to support Open RAN’s growth. In Vietnam, regulatory backing and support from the Ministry of Information and Communications are expected to play a crucial role.

As Viettel continues to deploy Open RAN-based solutions domestically and explore exports, Vietnam's approach to 5G development reflects its ambitions as an emerging digital power.

Thai Khang