KDDI to End Network Supply Deal With Rakuten in September, Some Lines Continue

- KDDI's roaming contract with Rakuten Mobile ends in late September
- KDDI plans to continue providing service in certain areas
As KDDI announces the end of its roaming deal with Rakuten Mobile in September, readers may wonder what this means for both companies' futures. This move signals that Rakuten Mobile, having rapidly grown over the past few years, is now seeking more autonomy.
The partnership between KDDI and Rakuten Mobile began in 2018 when Rakuten Mobile relied on KDDI's network infrastructure to expand its user base. Now, as Rakuten Mobile has established itself in the market, this contract's end marks a new era for both companies.
This decision not only impacts their business strategies but could also ripple through Japan's telecom landscape. How Rakuten Mobile will navigate future challenges and opportunities, and whether KDDI seeks new partners to complement its service offerings, are topics worth watching.