Panasonic is reportedly planning to stop supplying devices to NTT DoCoMo in order to focus on its activities in international markets – although its presence outside of Japan is currently limited.

According to reports originating from Kyodo News, Panasonic is suffering as DoCoMo focuses its marketing efforts on a smaller number of handsets – which has so far benefitted rivals Sharp and Sony.

Panasonic last year unveiled several handsets targeting markets outside of Japan, noting that while the international smartphone market is already seeing fierce competition, it still offers greater potential for growth than Japan alone.

However, the company – which has offered devices in international markets before – has yet to make much impact, and is believed to be in the process of restructuring its loss-making mobile unit.

Panasonic recently launched a device, P51, in India, although local publications have questioned the level of demand, due to high pricing and limited marketing.

Reports also said it is planning to enter the US market.