-- KDDI (TYO:9433) plans to launch mobile services in Vietnam later this year through a partnership with Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group or VNPT, expanding into the consumer segment, Nikkei reported Friday.
The companies aim to roll out a new brand using the online prepaid model behind KDDI's povo2.0 service, allowing users to buy data as needed, according to the report.
KDDI will provide technology and operational support, betting that the low-cost prepaid approach will gain traction in a market where many users lack bank accounts, the report said.
The move builds on a tie-up formed last year and marks the first push into retail mobile services under the partnership. KDDI also plans to develop a broader ecosystem with VNPT, linking telecom services with finance and retail through rewards programs, according to the report.
(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)