Global Mobile, a Taiwanese WiMAX license owner, signed a letter of intent on November 26 with Japan-based OpenWin (Open Wireless Network), funded by Japan's SoftBank, to collaborate on WiMAX business. The partnership marks the first cross-national cooperation for a Taiwanese WiMAX service provider.

According to the stipulations devised by Taiwan's NCC (National Communications Commission), WiMAX providers are required to raise a fund of up to NT$1 billion (US$31 million; US$1=NT$32.4) by January 3, 2008. Therefore, Global Mobile plans to announce its first-phase investment partners by year-end 2007, and OpenWin is expected evaluate the investment in Global Mobile after obtaining the WiMAX license to be issued by the Japanese government in December 2007.

The cooperation between Global Mobile and OpenWin is projected to focus on roaming service, technology exchange, as well as development of digital content and new application services, according to a report by Taiwan's Commercial Times.