Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Pham Hong Hai made the remarks at an ASEAN workshop on 5G spectrum held on Friday in Hanoi. He added that 5G technology plays a special role in connecting telecommunications infrastructures, and is essential in realizing the goal of building a digital ASEAN. Vietnam has approved a plan to test 5G this year, planned frequency bands, and provide commercial licenses next year.

Delegates stressed the need of spectrum for 5G network in order to provide 5G services. However, they noted that ASEAN countries are facing common challenges in distributing frequency bands for 5G. Doan Quang Hoan, former Head of the Radio Frequency Management Division under the Ministry of Information and Communications, said: "The frequency band 3.5 GHz is currently used for satellite information services. It’s very difficult to apply this frequency band to both 5G and satellite services. I think research on how to share this frequency band between terrestrial and satellite services is not easy and involves the direct engagement of the Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), which is the user of spectrum for satellite services. I believe a solution on this matter can be found through the cooperation between VNPT and the Ministry of Information and Communications."