These interesting comments were on the Oni blog about the Osaka Fishing Show posted Feb. 14th.

"Out of 180 exhibitors there were no more than six companies dealing with Tenkara rods.
Shimano brought three rods, Daiwa five and Tenryu five.

Gamakatsu release new rods only in fall.
Nissin made special Tenkara section with 30 different Tenkara rods.
It was only Nissin that could let you choose from many rods.
To me, our country seemed to be a bit behind in terms of Tenkara considering its popularity in other countries."

http://www.oni-tenkara.com/english/oni-blog/2373.html

Which indicates Gamakatsu may not be abandoning Tenkara after all if they are introducing new Tenkara rods later this year.
And I wonder if Tenryu has three other Tenkara rods not yet offered for sale. I am only aware of two models: the TF 39 and TF 30 TA.
With Nissin displaying 30 rods vs 3 and 5 from other major rod makers it is quit a contrast in focus on the Tenkara market from the different companies.
And the last statement about the growing popularity of Tenkara outside Japan may hint at which market will drive future development.