Fixed-line ISP Softbank is hatching plans to enter the Japanese 3G market as a service provider. According to reports in the Japanese press this morning, Softbank has asked the government to grant it access to the radio frequencies used by KDDI, Vodafone and NTT DoCoMo.

Masayoshi Son, Softbank’s president is quoted as saying that his company expects the government “Will allocate the bandwidth around next year and it will take about two years for us to prepare for the actual service.” The company has already filed a suit in the Japanese courts to stop the government from distributing more access on 800Mhz band, which it hopes to use.

Softbank argued that the plan favoured existing operators too much. Full story Here.

Related posts:

1. Softbank Sues Over 3G Plan
2. Softbank Blocked from 3G Spectrum
3. Vodafone May Sell Japanese Arm
4. Softbank Drops Lawsuit
5. KDDI Eyes Method for Advanced Mobile

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!