Vietnam’s mobile carriers are scheduled to carry out a support package worth nearly VND10 trillion ($435 million) for telecom subscribers in a three-month period.

Overview of the launch.

Minister of Information and Communications (MIC) Nguyen Manh Hung revealed the move in a launching ceremony held today [August 2] upon instruction of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on supporting the people and enterprises affected by the fourth Covid-19 outbreak.

“Mobile carriers would offer promotions worth VND10 trillion in three months so that the people would be provided with 50% more mobile data at the same price,” stated Hung, saying people with low income would be subject to discounted telecom packages.

According to Hung, in this difficult Covid-19 situation, telecom and internet communication are the only means for people to connect with local authorities.

“The Covid-19 is a catalyst for digital transformation, the fact that people use more telecom services and the internet means such process is being accelerated,” he noted.

Hung said a 50% increase in data but still maintaining service quality is a challenge for mobile carriers, but this is also a good opportunity for them to optimize the network and prepare for the development phase post-Covid-19.

Director of Telecommunications Department Hoang Minh Cuong added since the first Covid-19 outbreak in Vietnam, the MIC has been supporting the people and enterprises in the Covid-19 fight through various methods, including discounted telecom packages, more mobile data, or raising public awareness by sending phone messages.

Telecom companies such as Viettel, VNPT, MobiFone, CMC, FPT, Vietnamobile, SCTV would participate in the move that starts from August 5.

Carriers are expected to double data for cable internet services to meet the growing demand of remote working and studying while providing free of charge for the use of the Bluezone app or visiting the website of the Ministry of Health.

Customers would also enjoy an additional 50% mobile data for all packages and prices would remain unchanged.