On 2 June 2022, the 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA) and the IMT-2030 (6G) Promotion Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6G, with the aim to further promote cooperation on 6G.

The 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA) is the voice of research for the European industry and its next generation networks and services. Its primary objective is to contribute to Europe’s leadership beyond 5G and 6G research and to full 5G deployment according to the 5G Action Plan. The 6G-IA carries out a wide range of activities in strategic areas including standardization, frequency spectrum, R&D projects, technology skills, collaboration with key vertical industry sectors, notably for the development of trials, and international cooperation.

The IMT-2030 (6G) Promotion Group is the flagship platform in China for the promotion of 6G R&D and international cooperation. It also drives cutting-edge research on 6G technology and its industry in China. Its primary objective is to gather China’s industry-university-research forces to promote 6G research in a wide range of areas, including vision and requirements, wireless and network technologies, standardization, trials, study of social and economic impact, and international collaborations.

The MoU exhibits areas of cooperation between the two sides, as follows.

  • Exchange information in the field of 6G communication systems and networks.
  • Collaborate in the following aspects.
  • Vision of 6G communication systems and networks.
  • Requirements on 6G communication systems and networks.
  • Discussions on basic system concepts.
  • Frequency spectrum in order to support the global regulatory process.
  • Preparation of future global standards by identification of common interest and consensus building.
  • Collaboration on the development of a single global standard to ensure one global ecosystem for 6G.
  • Encouraging collaborative 6G research projects.

As their next step, the two organizations plan to organize joint activities, including but not limited to workshops, seminars, webinars, trials, and joint publications.