ZTE, China's second-largest provider of telecommunications equipment, may supply Hutchison 3G UK with third-generation mobile handsets.
The Shenzhen-based company last week unveiled its first 3G handset, the F808 and, at 104 grams, claims the phone is the lightest 3G in production.
A deal with Hutchison will give the company a high-profile customer while other industry heavyweights - such as Nokia and Motorola - struggle with 3G technology.
A key issue slowing 3G adoption has been bulky and heavy handsets: Motorola's A835 model weighs 172 grams, while Sony Ericsson's Z1010 is 144 grams.
The ZTE handset could possibly steal attention from LG's 8120 phone which, at a lighter 126 grams, is a favourite among consumers and a key driver of Hutchison's 3G growth.
'We are developing five to six more 3G phones for release next year, targeting low- to high-end markets,' a ZTE company source said.