State run CAT telecom will compete with telecommunication firms in bidding for 3G service license as part of its next-year 3G and 4G development plan, president Phisal Jorpocha-udom told reporters.

“CAT is eager to secure the 2.1GHz stronghold for the development 3G service and also the Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology—commonly known as the 4G technology,” he said.

The National Telecommunications Commission intends to award the 2.1GHz licenses by the middle of 2009.

CAT is considering expanding into the wireless business next year. The 4G service will be initially tested in big cities like Bangkok, Phuket and Chaingmai.

Mr. Phisal said he would also urge Hutchison to upgrade its networks to the evolution-data optimized (EV-DO) system, which is currently used in 51 provinces by CAT Telecom.

The two companies are in talk for the merging of their networks.

He said the state agency will be looking into making partnership with more mobile carriers.