China Sets Technical Standards for 3G Wireless Networks

Press Release - May 17, 2007

China’s telecom regulator, the Ministry of Information Industry (MII), has set technical standards for two more third-generation wireless technologies, paving the way for the issuance of 3G spectrum licenses in the not too distant future.

The MII revealed that it has set industry standards for WCDMA and CDMA2000 mobile data networks, in addition to China’s homegrown TD-SCDMA technology, standardized last year. This is a reversal of the Communist government’s previous position, which would have limited carriers to using the domestic standard.

China’s first 3G cell phone networks will be up in running in time for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, according to state-owned media outlets.