Vietnam Ignores US Warnings, Plans New 5G Deals with Chinese Tech Firms
Vietnam's police-owned telecom operator Mobifone is in talks with Chinese tech firms over new contracts to build parts of its 5G network, despite US warnings of security risks following earlier deals.
Hanoi — Vietnam's police-owned telecom operator Mobifone is in talks with Chinese tech firms over new contracts to build parts of its 5G network, three people briefed on the plan said, despite US warnings of security risks following earlier deals.
According to sources, Mobifone is currently in deep negotiations with several Chinese tech companies to introduce Chinese equipment and technology solutions in its 5G network construction. Despite repeated US warnings that Chinese communication equipment may pose security risks, Vietnam appears unwilling to abandon cooperation with Chinese partners.
This cooperation intention reflects Vietnam's complex stance on 5G network construction. On one hand, the US continues to pressure allies and partners to avoid using Chinese communication equipment, claiming these devices could be used for espionage. On the other hand, many Asian countries view Chinese technology as cost-competitive with mature technology and deployment experience in the 5G field.
Previously, Vietnam primarily relied on Nordic equipment suppliers Ericsson and Nokia for its 4G network construction. Regarding 5G deployment, there are differing opinions within Vietnam—some officials advocate continuing cooperation with European and American enterprises, while others prefer more cost-competitive Chinese technology.
The US State Department has previously stated that using Chinese communication equipment may pose national security risks and urged countries to choose "trusted suppliers" in 5G network construction. However, Vietnam's decision demonstrates that countries are making different choices between geopolitical pressure and economic interests.
Industry analysts believe Vietnam's decision may affect the 5G deployment landscape across Southeast Asia. If Vietnam reaches large-scale 5G cooperation with Chinese companies, other Southeast Asian countries may follow, further expanding Chinese communication technology's influence in the region.
Reference Sources: Reuters