Japan is developing a new generation of network architecture to replace the internet, according to the country"s Communications minister, Yoshihide Suga. Mr Suga"s department is currently seeking a 7.8 billion yen commitment in the next budget to begin researching the technology, which it hopes to rollout commercially in 2020. Alongside the vast sums of money, the Japanese government will also be looking to form partnerships with leading businesses and academic institutions to promote the technology.
The Japanese minister, speaking to reporters in Brazil, said that the research was a response to the challenges likely to be faced by the internet in the next century, including a need for higher bandwidth, stronger security and a more stable network. The new network will place Japan at the forefront of internet development, a position Mr Suga believes will only enhance Japanese competitiveness in global markets. The country already has a standing "e-Japan" policy which aims to create a country-wide network connecting every networked device, whether it be a mobile phone or radio tagged container.