Vietnam Post enters telecommunications market with "Pottel" travel SIM for international visitors

Expanding nationwide telecommunications service capabilities

Under License No. 559/GP-CVT, issued on 26 December 2025, by the Vietnam Telecommunications Authority (Ministry of Science and Technology), Vietnam Post Corporation is authorized to provide telecommunications services involving network infrastructure.

The license permits Vietnam Post to establish a terrestrial mobile public telecommunications network that does not utilize radio frequency bands - specifically, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) model - with nationwide coverage.

Vietnam Post will provide basic telecommunications services, including voice, messaging, and machine-to-machine (M2M) connectivity, as well as value-added services such as Internet access. Communication services will cover both domestic and international markets, delivered either directly or via resale in accordance with current regulations.

This expansion into telecommunications is expected to foster greater synergy among the various service sectors in which Vietnam Post operates. While the postal network facilitates the flow of goods, telecommunications will expand the flow of data, information, and digital connections, thereby enabling Vietnam Post’s service ecosystem to serve customers more comprehensively.

In addition to establishing the necessary legal framework, Vietnam Post is actively preparing its distribution network and sales outlets to bring these telecommunications products closer to customers. With a network of approximately 13,000 service points nationwide, this is a key advantage for Vietnam Post in expanding its reach to users.

Pottel - The first step in Vietnam Post’s telecommunications journey

As its initial move into the market, Vietnam Post has launched a travel SIM card for international visitors under the brand name "Pottel”.

The product targets international travelers visiting Vietnam - a group with an increasing need to stay connected to the internet throughout their journeys. From checking maps, searching for locations, booking rides, and contacting hotels to using social media and travel service platforms, mobile connectivity has become an essential part of the experience of exploring a new destination.

Rather than focusing on complex technical specifications, the Pottel travel SIM is designed around the practical needs of travelers: accessibility, ease of use, and rapid connectivity.

This approach allows Pottel to enter the telecommunications market by addressing a specific need, thereby gradually developing products and experiences tailored to distinct customer segments.

Travel SIMs - A connectivity solution for exploring Vietnam

For international travelers, having immediate Internet access upon arrival in a new country allows for a more flexible and independent journey. A data-enabled phone assists travelers with everything from basic tasks - such as checking maps, navigating, and hailing rides - to communicating, booking services, and staying updated while on the go. The Pottel travel SIM was developed to meet these specific needs during a traveler's stay in Vietnam.

Having readily available data reduces reliance on public Wi-Fi and ensures seamless connectivity while moving between locations. This is particularly essential for short trips, where travelers prefer to focus on their experiences rather than searching for Internet access points.

Beyond connectivity, Pottel prioritizes ease of use. The activation process is designed for convenience, enabling customers to quickly complete the necessary steps and start using the SIM for communication, navigation, and exploration.

Competitive pricing and expanded partnership opportunities with agents

Beyond the end-user experience, Pottel aims to build a distribution network tailored to the specific needs of international travelers.

The travel SIMs are priced to align with travelers' data usage requirements and the duration of their stays. Users can select products based on their actual itineraries and connectivity needs, thereby avoiding unnecessary expenses during their travels.

Alongside direct sales channels, Pottel is expanding partnerships with agents, retail outlets, and business partners interested in selling travel SIMs. Partner policies are designed to facilitate product access and business expansion, helping to bring these travel SIMs closer to international customers.

Integrating end-user products with a robust distribution network is a key step in gradually expanding Pottel’s market presence.

International visitors can purchase Pottel SIM cards in central Hanoi

Starting August 15, 2026, international visitors can purchase Pottel travel SIM cards at two locations in central Hanoi: 66 Luong Van Can, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi; and 75 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

Both locations are situated in the city center, close to Hanoi's Old Quarter and numerous attractions, accommodations, and shopping areas popular with international visitors. Making the product available at these physical retail points offers travelers a convenient option to purchase a SIM card while exploring the capital.

The launch of Pottel in the travel SIM market also marks the beginning of Vietnam Post's journey into the telecommunications sector. From establishing the legal framework and distribution network to defining product development strategies, Vietnam Post is gradually expanding its connectivity service capabilities, adding a new component to its service ecosystem.

With the Pottel travel SIM, this journey begins by addressing a practical need for travelers: having convenient Internet access to explore Vietnam independently from the very start of their trip./.

Copyright belongs to the Vietnam Journal of Science and Technology (VJST-MOST).