So the third-generation (3G) mobile phone licenses have finally been issued. But 3G is not only about bringing forth lucrative businesses for mobile operators and massive telecom investment to boost economic growth.

By issuing the long-waited 3G licenses, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) may have kick-started a new race among the three domestic telecom giants to better serve consumers.

The issuance of 3G licenses to China Mobile, China Telecom and China Unicom yesterday officially ushered in a new phase in the development of China's telecom industry.