TD-SCDMA Update
March 23, 2007
China Mobile has launched the bidding process for TD-SCDMA network construction in the cities of the second-round trials. Equipment makers invited to offer tenders include ZTE, Datang Mobile, Ericsson, Alcatel Shanghai Bell, FiberHome Technologies, and a joint venture between Potevio and Nokia. The bid is valued at 20 Billion RMB (US$2.59 billion; US$1 = 7.73 RMB), and results are scheduled to be announced in April 2007. Winners will have to complete network construction by August in time for commercial trials to start in October. Only when TD-SCDMA has passed the trials will the Chinese government issue 3G mobile communications licenses, including those for the CDMA 2000 and WCDMA standards.