After years of delays, the Chinese government said late Wednesday that it would issue licenses for next-generation 3G wireless services, which could fuel growth in what is already the world’s biggest market for wireless services.

China’s state council, or cabinet, made the announcement on its Web site saying the government would back three standards, including one chiefly developed in China.

To read this New York Times report in full, see nytimes.com/2009/01/01/technology/01wireless.html.

Also see:

China lifts roadblock for 3G phones
China’s state council said it’s approved licenses for higher-speed 3G mobile networks, a move expected to help bring higher-end services to phone users in the country.

To read this CNET report in full, see news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-10130095-94.html.