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Vietnam is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with a notable 40% increase in mobile internet speeds reported over the past five months. This improvement highlights Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure and fostering a competitive telecommunications sector.
The surge in internet speeds is attributed to a combination of regulatory transparency and improved service quality. The Vietnam Internet Network Information Centre (VNNIC), operating under the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), has played a crucial role through its i-Speed internet speed measurement tool. This tool provides detailed insights into internet performance and has been instrumental in tracking the progress of Vietnam’s mobile internet capabilities.
Recent data reveals a steady average upload speed of around 21.19 Mbps, with download speeds rising significantly from 38.69 Mbps in March to 54.34 Mbps in July 2024. This represents a 20% increase in upload speeds over the same period, highlighting an overall improvement in user experience.
The competitive landscape of mobile internet services in Vietnam has also seen significant shifts. Viettel, a leading player in the market, offers the highest average download speed of 65.89 Mbps and an upload speed of 21.71 Mbps as of July 2024.
This positions Viettel as a dominant force in the sector, reflecting its investment in network infrastructure and service quality. VNPT, another major provider, follows with average speeds of 52.99 Mbps for downloads and 21.5 Mbps for uploads. MobiFone and Vietnamobile, while trailing behind, continue to contribute to the competitive dynamics of the market.
In addition to mobile internet improvements, Vietnam’s fixed broadband sector has also shown robust performance. Viettel leads with an average download speed of 128.97 Mbps, underscoring its strong presence in the broadband market. Competitors such as FPT Telecom and VNPT also demonstrate significant capabilities, illustrating the intense competition within the sector and the overall advancement of Vietnam’s digital infrastructure.
The proactive stance of the MIC in publishing service quality metrics has been a game-changer for the telecommunications industry. By making these metrics publicly available, the MIC has created a more transparent and competitive environment. This transparency not only empowers consumers to make informed decisions but also drives Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to continuously enhance their service offerings.
A spokesperson from the MIC emphasised that public disclosure of service quality metrics has spurred improvements across all providers, leading to a more efficient and user-centric digital ecosystem.
To further engage consumers, the Department of Telecommunications has promoted the use of the i-Speed application. This tool allows users to measure internet speeds without incurring data charges, facilitating active monitoring and reporting of service quality. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to involve consumers in the digital landscape and ensure high standards of service delivery.
OpenGov Asia reported that Vietnam is set to enhance its digital infrastructure with full mobile broadband coverage and nationwide 5G deployment by 2025, expanding to remote areas and phasing out 2G services. The plan includes providing fibre-optic access to all households and constructing new undersea cables to boost digital connectivity.
Vietnam’s rapid progress in mobile internet speeds and overall digital infrastructure signifies a crucial step in its journey toward becoming a leading digital economy in the region. The consistent improvements in internet speeds reflect the country’s dedication to advancing its telecommunications sector, fostering competition, and enhancing user experiences.
As Vietnam continues to invest in and prioritise its digital infrastructure, it is well-positioned to maintain its trajectory as a key player in the global digital economy. With ongoing regulatory efforts and technological advancements, Vietnam is set to achieve its vision of a dynamic and competitive digital future.