Thang was responding to concerns that the new area codes and mobile phone prefixes would make considerable difficulties for businesses.
Thang emphasized the importance of establishing the new area codes as well as mobile phone prefixes, saying the old system, which was designed more than 50 years ago, can no longer accommodate the country's fast developing telecommunication networks.
Thang also clarified that not all mobile phone users will be affected by the Circular. He said that only those having 11-digit mobile phone numbers will experience the change. Besides, the numbers won't be changed completely, just the first four digits, he added.
 

Illustration picture

"The circular will re-organise the area codes. It will take effect officially on March 1, but every change will not happen on that day. It is a long-term plan and will be implemented in many phases," said Thang.
The deputy minister also said changes that do not affect large numbers of users will be prioritised. The system will solve both old and the new numbers for a while before the changes become permanent, he added.
Tran Manh Tuan - Deputy Director of  Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) said that involved user groups will be notified 60 days ahead of time on media and through other means of communication. The MIC will co-operate with telecommunications companies to provide technical support during and after the transitional period.