Mobile operator ready for 3G service

China Mobile is well prepared for the issuing of 3G licences, but the firm also believes its mobile data services can still thrive on the existing 2.5G network, according to chairman Wang Jianzhou.

'We have prepared for 3G for many years. Our core network is 2.5G and 3G-compatible, so we don't need to build a new core network,' Mr Wang said.

However, he was tight-lipped about the home-developed TD-SCDMA service, which is due to start trials in October, saying only that the parent company, China Mobile Communications Corp, would be announcing details.