Nokia to deliver GSM core network to VinaPhone in Vietnam

The deal marks Nokia’s entry to the Vietnamese infrastructure market

Nokia and Vietnam’s largest mobile operator, Vietnam Telecom Services Company (GPC), have signed an agreement for the delivery of GSM core network equipment. The agreement with this new customer marks Nokia’s entry to the rapidly expanding Vietnamese network infrastructure market. GPC, which provides mobile services under the brand name VinaPhone, has chosen Nokia to supply its GSM Mobile Switching Centers (MSCs) to increase VinaPhone’s network switching capacity in the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The Nokia NetAct(TM) network and service management system, as well as related services, are also included. Deliveries are ongoing and commercial launch is targeted in November.

“This contract will open the possibility to boost long-term cooperation between Nokia and GPC,” said GPC deputy director Pham Quang Hao, adding that Nokia will provide international-standard equipment compatible with the VinaPhone network. “Nokia has long been present in Vietnam as a mobile phone supplier,” said Brian Ridgway, Chief Representative, Networks, Nokia Vietnam. “We are now proud and pleased to be entering the infrastructure market. By bringing our high-quality and high-capacity switching system to GPC, we are further highlighting the advantages of our networks for operators in new growth market.”

VinaPhone is invested 100% by Vietnam Posts & Telecommunication Coproration by using the world known state-of-the-art GSM technology. Currently VinaPhone has coverage in all 64 provinces and cities in Vietnam and linked with mobile operators in more than 54 countries and governed territories. Since its opening ceremony on 26 June 1996, VinaPhone has been rapidly developing its network to meet the demands of the growing market. VinaPhone is now the biggest mobile phone network in Vietnam with nearly 3,000,000 customers.

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