The Japanese government is aiming to triple the availability of high-speed 5G wireless services over the next two years. The plan is to cover 95 percent of the population by March 2024.

Mobile carriers have prioritized expanding their networks in urban areas since the launch of 5G in 2020.
But only 30 percent of the population has access to the new technology.

The communications ministry consulted telecom firms and has set a goal of achieving 95 percent coverage by the end of fiscal 2023. It wants to get to 97 percent by fiscal 2025, and 99 percent by fiscal 2030.

"Speedy expansion of 5G availability is a must" Communications Minister Kaneko Yasushi said. "We will swiftly establish the necessary environment so that 5G technology can benefit as many people as possible."

Ministry officials say they will assign additional 5G frequencies to the carriers. They also plan to offer subsidies for installing base stations in mountainous areas and on remote islands.