Nokia completes Panasonic network business acquisition

Nokia Networks has completed the acquisition of the network business from Japanese firm Panasonic, including its 3G and LTE base station systems and related equipment. The Finnish infrastructure vendor said the integration of the new resources will improve efficiency and quality control of its product development and R&D.

According to Nokia, the business purchase, which included fixed assets, employees and relevant contracts in Japan, will enhance its existing mobile broadband capabilities and grow its market share in base stations in the country. As outlined by the networking specialist at the time it first announced its intentions of the acquisition, Japan is a key focus market for Nokia.

“With this acquisition, Nokia Networks will single-handedly contribute towards the domestic and overseas business of Japan’s operators, and also benefit from synergies in terms of efficient product operations and focused R&D efforts,” Ashish Chowdhary, Chief Business Officer at Nokia Networks said. “Furthermore, this acquisition also provides us with the opportunity to tap the potential of the carrier mobile system market – a key focus area for our business in Japan.”

The Japanese mobile market is advanced one and usually sees relatively rapid deployment cycles once a decision on a project has been made. The country is also aiming to be 5G-ready as soon as the technology has been fully developed, aimed at 2020. This should provide Nokia ample opportunities to profit in the country.