Transport communications

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Archives for April 2024

TT Club : Demystifying ESG – a tool kit

The demand for organisations across the freight transport spectrum to develop a cogent ESG – Environment, Social, Governance – policy is ever increasing. Leading insurance provider to the sector, TT Club is providing an active toolkit to assist in the development of relevant policies.

London, 23rd April 2024

In collaboration with its Members, partners and service providers, TT has produced a toolkit to assist those it insures meet the complex demands developing ESG policies present. It provides signposts to strategies and solutions to challenges such as emissions calculation, reduction and reporting.

Commenting on the launch of the toolkit TT’s CEO Charles Fenton says, “The rapid development of ESG principles presents a challenge to many Members, particularly smaller operators. Our ESG toolkit is in line with our commitment to providing our Members, and the sector as a whole with the resources to give insight, educational content and support in navigating a company’s pathway in this complex area.”

“The toolkit will develop over time to build a resource base of success stories of effective ESG strategies from across the cargo handling and supply chain sectors, ” explains TT’s Managing Director Loss Prevention, Mike Yarwood.  “This series of case studies provide building blocks to guide others in designing and embedding ESG policies and will be augmented as our experiences and those of our Members and partners evolve.”

The components of ESG – Environment, Social, Governance – are well recognised, but what is less well known are the varied implications of applying high and developing standards of business practice in each area.    

Support and guidance to help mitigate the environmental impact of operations is a valid start point but knowing what to consider will be starkly different for a freight forwarder, a port or a container terminal. Operations must positively impact local communities wherever possible.  However, transport and logistics companies wield significant influence over numerous social factors. From ensuring fair labour practices to promoting diversity and inclusion and to safeguarding employee well-being. What are the best means of ensuring these goals is a question an operator must answer.

Further, the requirements and benefits of good governance are still evolving alongside the rise of ESG. This predates environmental and social risks as a corporate priority but inconsistent developing demands by both international regulators and national governments means transport operators must keep a watchful eye on variable trends.

In all cases TT believes its ESG toolkit provides current, practical guidance to operators .

*Available via this link ESG toolkit (ttclub.com) for free download

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1200 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 97% of its Members, with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more. www.ttclub.com

Updated version released of “Prevention of Pest Contamination of Containers: Joint Industry Guidelines for the Cleaning of Containers”

11 April 2024 – Every year, 250 million containers are transported across the world with food, clothes, electronics and other goods we all need. While crucial for the smooth functioning of the global supply chain, containers and their cargoes can also harbour and transfer contaminating pests. All parties in the supply chain have a shared responsibility for stopping the spread of pests by keeping cargo and containers clean, and the Prevention of Pest Contamination of Containers: Joint Industry Guidelines for the Cleaning of Containers provide easy-to-use best practices to help everyone do their part. For this update, we are also happy to welcome ICHCA as a new partner together with BIC, COA, IICL and WSC.

The latest update of the Joint Industry Guidelines for the Cleaning of Containers, published in 2023, was warmly received by regulators and industry, and has become a valued source of guidance when it comes to preventing pest contamination. The 2024 update provides further detail on the concept of custodial responsibility – the inspections and measures that each party in the supply chain should undertake when the container is in their custody, as well as the requirement for the receiving party to inform the tenderer if the container or its cargo has any visible pest contamination.

For the 2024 update, the industry parties behind the Guidelines – the Bureau International des Containers (BIC), the Container Owners Association (COA), the Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) and World Shipping Council (WSC) – are happy to welcome the International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA) as a new partner in supporting the implementation of the guidelines among cargo
handlers.

“Each party in the international container supply chain has a custodial responsibility to make sure cargo and containers are clean when they arrive and when they leave their care. If we all live up to these standards, containers will reach their destination faster and our agriculture, forestry and natural resources are protected,” says Lars Kjaer, Senior Vice President of WSC.

Experience shows that the introduction of new pests can severely upset an existing ecosystem, with serious ecological consequences and possibly billion dollar impacts on a nation’s economy. Regulators and national authorities play a central role in stopping the transfer of pests, but given the scale of global trade it is prevention – stopping pests from entering cargo or containers in the first place – that is the best solution.


With the updated “Prevention of Pest Contamination of Containers: Joint Industry Guidelines for the Cleaning of Containers” BIC, COA, ICHCA, IICL and WSC are looking to further improve the level of prevention across
the supply chain to stop the transfer of pests.

All parties in the supply chain – from manufacturers, to exporters, packers, freight forwarders, inland logistics providers, warehouse storage providers, ocean carriers, and importers – must take responsibility for maintaining cargo and containers clean when in their care. By applying the best practices described in this Guide the parties can keep containers and their cargoes clean, fulfilling their custodial responsibility and reducing the risk of pest contamination and transfer.

Download your free copy here ((English & Chinese): Pests — World Shipping Council

The “Prevention of Pest Contamination of Containers: Joint Industry Guidelines for the Cleaning of Containers” are complementary to the direction provided in various guidelines published by the IPPC and in
the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing Cargo Transport Units (“CTU Code”) regarding prevention of pest contamination of containers.

Contact
Anna Larsson, Communications Director
Tel: +47 484 06 919
Email: alarsson@worldshipping.org

About World Shipping Council
The World Shipping Council is the united voice of liner shipping, working with policymakers and industry groups to shape the future growth of a socially responsible, environmentally sustainable, safe, and secure shipping industry. We are a non-profit trade association with offices in Brussels, Singapore, London and Washington, D.C. The WSC has observer status at the UN IMO. Read more at www.worldshipping.org

About Bureau International des Containers
The Bureau International des Containers (BIC) was founded in 1933 under the auspices of the ICC as a neutral, non-profit, international organization. BIC seeks to promote efficiency, safety, security, standardization and sustainability in the container supply chain. Publisher of the BIC Code Register since 1970, BIC also operates other industry databases, including the BoxTech Global Container Database (bic-boxtech.org), the BIC Facility Code Database, and the Global ACEP Database. BIC holds official observer status at IMO, WCO, and UN/CEFACT. BIC participated in developing the CTU Code. www.bic-code.org

About Container Owners Association
The Container Owners Association is the international organisation representing the common interests of all owners of freight containers. The principle aims of the COA are to provide global expertise, to promote common standards and to facilitate international lobbying. More information is available at: www.containerownersassociation.com

About Institute of International Container Lessors
The Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) is the leading trade association of the container and chassis leasing industry. The IICL’s membership engages in leasing marine cargo containers and chassis to vessel operators and other organizations on a broad international basis. Members own or manage a significant portion of the global leased container and U.S. chassis fleets.
More information is available at: www.iicl.org


ICHCA – International Cargo Handling Coordination Association
Established in 1952, ICHCA International is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the safety, productivity and efficiency of cargo handling and movement worldwide. ICHCA’s privileged NGO status enables it to represent its members, and the cargo handling industry at large, in front of national and international agencies and regulatory bodies, while its Technical Panel provides best practice advice and develops publications on a wide range of practical cargo handling issues. Operating through a series of national and regional chapters, including ICHCA Australia, ICHCA Japan and Correspondence and Working Groups, ICHCA provides a focal point for informing, educating, lobbying and networking to improve knowledge and best practice across the cargo handling chain.
More information is available at: www.ichca.com

Canada’s Irving Shipbuilding Awards GEODIS Inbound Logistics Contract

As part of Halifax-based Irving Shipbuilding Inc.’s (ISI) participation in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Program, a contract to provide inbound logistics services for ship construction and repair projects has been awarded to global logistics company, GEODIS.

The contract, which will be managed by GEODIS’ Project Logistics’ team in Canada, with support from the company’s global network of offices, will cover all inbound shipments to ISI facilities in Halifax, Nova Scotia to supply three shipbuilding programs:  the Canadian Surface Combatant, Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships, and Halifax Class Frigate Repair Contracts. Utilizing GEODIS proprietary IT systems, ISI will achieve total asset visibility throughout their supply chain.

GEODIS was selected based on its global presence and industry-leading logistics capabilities, combined with a commitment to engage with local companies to provide this critical service. Accordingly, this contract helps Irving Shipbuilding fulfill its Industrial Technological Benefits obligations under the Canadian Government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy” said Michael Snow, Irving Shipbuilding’s Director of Supply Chain.

The Canadian Government’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy seeks to leverage defense and Canadian Coast Guard procurements to contribute to jobs, innovation, and economic growth across the country. In line with these aims, The National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) set a plan to revitalize Canadian shipyards, bolster the Canadian Naval industrial base, renew Canada’s fleet, and to promote job creation. Irving Shipbuilding’s programs are an integral part of these policies.

With our extensive experience in the defense and marine logistics sectors, we were able to provide a tailor-made solution focused on very specific client and governmental requirements, in a zero-harm environment,” said Luke Mace, GEODIS, Senior Vice President Project Logistics. “We are very excited to be working with Irving Shipbuilding, a company that has constructed over 80% of Canada’s Navy at sea and we look forward to continuing to build our presence in Canada through this partnership.”

GEODIS – www.geodis.com    

GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in four lines of business: Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express Transport, and European Road Network. With a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 53 000 employees, GEODIS is ranked no. 5 in its sector across the world. In 2023, GEODIS generated €11.6 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group.  

TT Club : Loss of purchasing power across the global continues to fuel cargo crime

In the recently published Annual Cargo Theft Report 2023 TT Club and BSI SCREEN Intelligence pinpoint high inflation as a primary macroeconomic driver of cargo crime patterns. The rise in food and beverages as a stolen commodity is one such indicator.

London, 11 April, 2024

Key findings of the 2023 Report:

  • Increase in Food and Beverages (incl. alcohol) stolen from 16% to 24% of global total
  • Most common mode remains Road at 71%
  • Facilities as a location for theft down from 30% to 23%
  • Top countries include Mexico, USA, South Africa, Germany & Italy
  • Electronics slightly down at 9% of incidents but still significant in terms of value
  • Modus operandi differs by region: examples include ‘Blue light crime’ in South Africa & ‘insider activity’ in Asia

As in the past four years BSI and TT have come together to highlight the global cargo crime trends that were prevalent over the previous year. Their Report is intended to serve as cautionary advice to all concerned with supply chain security and also to provide mitigation recommendations to combat these threats which are likely to persist into the current year.

Tony Pelli is Practice Director at BSI, he gives substance to the extent of these crimes, “Cargo theft is a problem that costs companies tens of billions of dollars each year and can cause significant disruption to important supply chains, from pharmaceutical products to semiconductors,” says Pelli. “Having accurate and up-to-date intelligence is the first step in combatting this problem and pinpointing the locations and types of theft that are most likely to harm global supply chains.”

“In identifying shifting crime patterns in terms of new fraudulent methodologies and a focus on both historic and current geographic risk, we seek to assist operators in tightening their security processes,” further explains TT’s Managing Director Loss Prevention, Mike Yarwood. “In addition to the details of the global trends in commodities stolen and the types of theft we have provided a series of case studies drawing attention to prevalent regional or country specific dangers.”

These include an increase in olive oil thefts in Southern European countries following record poor harvests and a consequent rapid rise in the value of the oil, evidenced by the retail cost recorded on supermarket shelves. Also detailed are crimes in both Europe and the USA that employ various types of fraud, including identity theft, fictious pick-ups and drop-offs and credit fraud.  In South Africa so-called Blue Light gangs, who imitate police in order to stop vehicles are becoming more common. Finally, awareness of corruption among employees and third-party contractors is particularly stressed in Asia, where much evidence exists of ‘insider’ activity leading to cargo theft from warehouse facilities and trucking operations.

In terms of mitigation Yarwood comments, “Our combined experience as insurance provider and supply chain intelligence gatherer is invaluable, not just recording the details of crime but also in recommending practical actions and process design suggestions that will strengthen supply chain organisations in their fight against the threat of theft. These too are itemised in our Report.”

The 2023 Cargo Theft Report is available for download free of charge HERE

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1100 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 93% of its Members with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more. 

www.ttclub.com

About BSI

BSI is the business improvement and standards company that enables organizations to turn standards of best practice into habits of excellence, ‘inspiring trust for a more resilient world’. For over a century BSI has driven best practice in organizations around the world. Working with over 77,500 clients across 195 countries, it is a truly global business with skills and experience across all sectors including automotive, aerospace, built environment, food and retail and healthcare. Through its expertise in Standards and Knowledge, Assurance Services, Regulatory Services and Consulting Services, BSI helps clients to improve their performance, grow sustainably, manage risk and ultimately become more resilient.

To learn more, please visit: www.bsigroup.com

About BSI Supply Chain Services and Solutions
BSI Supply Chain Services and Solutions is the leading global provider of supply chain intelligence, global supply chain verification auditing services, audit compliance and risk management software solutions, and advisory services. BSI’s supply chain services and solutions and services can work independently to address specific needs or combined together to gain unparalleled visibility into your global operations. Implementing BSI’s holistic supply chain risk management suite provides organizations with a complete solution for a more sustainable and secure supply chain.

To learn more, please visit www.bsigroup.com/supplychain

“K” Line : Memorandum of Understanding Regarding the Joint Development of Ammonia-Fueled Bulk Carriers Signed

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), announced today that, together with ITOCHU Corporation(“ITOCHU”), Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., MAN Energy Solutions (MAN), Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd., and NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding joint development efforts for the commercialization of ammonia-fueled ships.

Ammonia is advancing as a key zero-emission marine fuel solution and if it becomes possible to commonly use ammonia as a marine fuel, this will greatly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The development and commercialization of ammonia dual fueled engines using ammonia as their primary fuel (ammonia-fueled engines) is essential for widespread use of ammonia-fueled ships. In particular, the ensuring of safety in the handling of toxic ammonia and the confirming of stable operations at sea are important milestones on the road to the social implementation. This MOU is based on the premise that 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers to be built by Nihon Shipyard will be equipped with ammonia-fueled engines being developed by MAN as a pilot project prior to commercialization, and that the necessary operational data will be collected after the delivery of the ships for the commercialization of ammonia-fueled engines and ammonia-fueled ships in cooperation with other parties involved.

The signing of this MOU is an important milestone for the implementation of ammonia-fueled ships, a new challenge being taken on by the maritime industry, and also an important step in the ongoing implementation of the Integrated Project being facilitated by ITOCHU.

ITOCHU and its partners will proceed with the development of the ammonia-fueled engines and ships based on this MOU, aiming to begin social implementation once the engines and ships are ready in accordance with the integrated project for the development and social implementation of ammonia fueled ships selected by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) in October 2021 to be a part of its publicly solicited Green Innovation Fund Project/Development Project for Next-Generation Ships/Development of Ammonia Fueled Ships*

As a logistics company rooted in the shipping industry, the “K” LINE Group will continue to work to reduce its environmental impact to aim for sustainable growth and greater corporate value based on its corporate principle of “we help make the lives of people more affluent.”

* October 26, 2021: Joint project on “Development of Ammonia-fueled ship” adopted as Green Innovation Fund

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/Liquefied_gas/Liquefied_gas-20211026.html

Key Roles

PartnersKey Roles
MANDesign and development of Ammonia Fueled Engine and verification after delivery of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers equipped with Ammonia Fueled Engines
Nihon ShipyardDesign and construction of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers equipped with Ammonia Fueled Engines
ITOCHU
“K” LINE
NS United
Crew development and ship management for operation of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers equipped with Ammonia Fueled Engines and collection of operation data
Mitsui E&SManufacturing Ammonia Fueled Engine of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers and Design and production of related system
ITOCHUInformation sharing for ammonia fuel supply
From left:
Sato Yoshinori, Executive Officer, NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd.
Tanaka Ichiro, Director, MITSUI E&S Co., Ltd.
Daniel Struckmeier, Managing Director, MAN Energy Solutions Japan Ltd.
Higaki Kiyoshi, President, NIHON SHIPYARD CO., LTD.
Ikeda Shingo, Executive Officer, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.
Ozeki Hirohiko, General Manager of Marine Department, ITOCHU Corporation

SMART BORDER CONNECT BY DACHSER

DACHSER LAUNCHES NEW SERVICE PROVIDING UK EXPORTERS WITH FRICTIONLESS EU MARKET ACCESS.

Northampton – 10 April 2024 : DACHSER have today announced the formal launch of their new Smart border connect services, connect40 and connect42. These services will provide UK exporters, shipping on DDP incoterms, with frictionless access to DACHSER’s quality market leading European groupage network which transported 65.7million intra European shipments in 2023.

Credit : DACHSER

Commenting on the launch the UK and Ireland Sales and Commercial Manager, Mark Cosgrove said: “As more and more UK exporters chose to minimise the impact of post Brexit trading conditions on their EU customers by shipping on DDP incoterms DACHSER has developed a scalable, cost-effective solution, to meet this growing demand.”

Since Brexit DACHSER has created many bespoke customer DDP solutions, however Smart border connect is designed to give UK exporters, of all sizes frictionless access to what has always been its most important asset, Europe’s quality market leading groupage network.

Smart border connect was piloted at the beginning of February, and since then there has already been huge demand from both existing and new customers. Many have now taken the decision to renegotiate their existing DAP incoterms to DDP to take advantage of the fastest transit times in the market.

UK Export Market Perspective

 “From an overall market perspective, we are entering an important new phase in post Brexit UK / EU distribution trends,” continued Cosgrove,  “Customs solutions are no longer the primary driver of customer procurement consideration, and we return to the historic logistics purchasing drivers of speed to market (i.e., transit times) and quality of service allied with competitive pricing.”

DACHSER is convinced that the new Smart border connect services will assist UK exporters in regaining and maintaining their competitiveness on an even playing field with their European competitors in what are incredibly challenging global economic conditions.

About DACHSER

Dachser, a family-owned company headquartered in Kempten, Germany, provides transport logistics, warehousing, and customized services in two business fields: Dachser Air & Sea Logistics and Dachser Road Logistics. The latter consists of two business lines: Dachser European Logistics and Dachser Food Logistics. Comprehensive contract logistics services and industry-specific solutions round out the company’s range. A seamless shipping network—both in Europe and overseas—and fully integrated IT systems ensure intelligent logistics solutions worldwide.

Thanks to some 34,000 employees at 382 locations all over the globe, Dachser generated consolidated net revenue of approximately EUR 7.1 billion in 2023. The same year, the logistics provider handled a total of 77.4 million shipments weighing 40.0 million metric tons. Country organizations represent Dachser in 43 countries. For more information about Dachser, please visit dachser.com

GEODIS recognized by CDP at “Leadership” level for its commitment to the climate

GEODIS achieves the Leadership level and receives an “A-” score for disclosing action on climate through CDP, reflecting its commitment to the fight against climate change.

GEODIS’ A- score highlights its commitment to transparency with regards to its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and recognizes its rigorous approach to identifying, reducing and managing its emissions throughout its operations and supply chain.

GEODIS’ recognition by CDP on climate issues complements the recent announcement of its Science Based Target (SBT) decarbonization objectives. By 2030, GEODIS has set itself the target of reducing its GHG emissions from scopes 1 and 2 activities by 42% and reducing the carbon intensity of sub-contracted transport (scope 3) by 30%, compared with 2022.

Photo credit : CRUSIAUX Franck-REA

“At GEODIS, we work with our customers and partners to promote innovative, sustainable and ethical logistics. We are proud to be recognized at the Leadership level by the CDP on climate issues. The result of this evaluation acknowledges our commitment to implementing more sustainable practices and our capacity for environmental leadership in the logistics sector,” says Virginie Delcroix, EVP Sustainability at GEODIS.

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) approach and its commitment to controlling and reducing the environmental impact of its activities, GEODIS has been responding to the CDP questionnaire since 2014.

* CDP is a global non-profit that runs the world’s environmental disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions. www.cdp.net

GEODIS – www.geodis.com    

GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in four lines of business: Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express Transport, and European Road Network. With a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 53,000 employees, GEODIS is ranked no. 5 in its sector across the world. In 2023, GEODIS generated €11.6 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group.

GEODIS invests in New Container Freight Station in Singapore

Enabling customers to streamline their supply chains by offering consolidation and access to a range of multi-modal options of sea, air and/or road transportation amidst ongoing supply chain disruptions.

GEODIS, a global leading transport and logistics services provider, has announced the opening of its new Container Freight Station (CFS) in Singapore.  Strategically located within the Keppel DistriPark free trade zone,  the CFS serves as an international hub and a key node within the highly secure GEODIS Road Network, which connects major air hubs and sea ports in Southeast Asia and China. Customers have available to them a wide range of multimodal options in sea, air and/or road transportation.

Photo credit : Tan Ying Zheng

With Singapore’s strategic position and excellent connectivity as a transit hub, this facility plays a pivotal role in connecting customers to the rest of the world.  The CFS is managed by GEODIS’ own network experts, enabling better control, visibility and security of customers’ cargo. In place of its predecessor, which was a co-loading facility, it provides enhanced capabilities in consolidation services, bonded storage solutions and transshipment services. GEODIS customers have access to both full-container-load (FCL) and less-than-container-load (LCL) options. 

“With constant shifts of the global supply chain and competitive pressures, we recognize our customers’ need for flexibility, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Our new CFS offers them more control over their shipments and streamlined workflows. The options for consolidation or tapping into our multi-modal network make a lot of sense, not just financially, but also environmentally,” said Lakshmanan Venkateswaran, Sub-Regional Managing Director – Southeast Asia, Japan and Korea.

GEODIS – www.geodis.com     GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in four lines of business: Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express Transport, and European Road Network. With a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 53 000 employees, GEODIS is ranked no. 5 in its sector across the world. In 2023, GEODIS generated €11.6 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group.

“K” LINE enters into Long-Term Time Charter with QatarEnergy for Four Newbuilding LNG vessels

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) is pleased to announce the execution of four long-term Time Charter contracts through joint  venture companies*¹ with QatarEnergy*². The joint venture companies have concurrently executed Shipbuilding contracts for 174,000m3 LNG carriers with Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd.

QatarEnergy is the world’s largest LNG producer and will allocate the newbuilding vessels to transport LNG around the world.

The newbuilding vessels will be equipped with X-DF2.2 iCER*³, VCR*⁴ and other energy saving devices which will contribute to reduction of GHG emissions and realize the ease of environmental impact by lower fuel consumption in operation.

Additionally, the new building vessels will obtain OCCS-Ready notation from classification society by conducting an evaluation for future installation of the OCCS*⁵, in anticipation of further GHG reduction.

Since the delivery of “Bishu Maru” in 1983 as the first Japanese LNG carrier, “K” LINE has been establishing expertise on LNG transportation and developing its worldwide network for over 40 years.

“K” LINE and QatarEnergy have had long-term relationship through several existing projects. The new four Time Charter contracts will further strengthen the business relationship.

In our Medium-Term Management Plan published in May 2022*⁶, “K” LINE has placed LNG business as one of the top priority areas in the future investment. “K” LINE will further expand long-term contracts and accommodate growing energy demands by responding to various customers’ needs.

*1. It is sponsored by K” LINE together with Hyundai Glovis Co., Ltd.

*2. QatarEnergy is a state energy company of Qatar.

(QatarEnergy Release)

March 31, 2024:QATARENERGY’S HISTORIC FLEET EXPANSION PROGRAM HITS 104 CONVENTIONAL LNG VESSELS

https://www.qatarenergy.qa/en/MediaCenter/Pages/newsdetails.aspx?ItemId=3803

*3. X-DF2.2 iCER is a low speed dual-fuel engine with gas at low pressure and is equipped with exhaust gas recirculation system.

*4. VCR is technology to optimize the compression ratio of the main engine.

*5. OCCS is Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage.

*6. Medium-Term Management Plan (Released on May 9, 2022)

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/ir/management/strategy.html

Main Particulars of the Vessel

ShipyardHanwha Ocean Co., Ltd.
Delivery2027
LOAAbout 294.9m
Beam46.4m
Tank Capacity174,000m3
Propulsion SystemX-DF
Speed19.5knt

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has signed up as TNFD Early Adopter

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K LINE) registered as an “TNFD Early Adopter” *¹ on March 28, 2024.

The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) is an international initiative that establishes a framework for the appropriate assessment and disclosure of risks and opportunities for natural capital and biodiversity. By registering as a “TNFD Early Adopter”, “K” LINE aims to disclose information in line with TNFD recommendations during fiscal year 2024 or 2025.

Our business is dependent on natural capital, mainly from the ocean, and we consider our efforts to address not only climate change issues but also biodiversity conservation, especially in the ocean, to be one of the most important themes in our business activities. Last year, in conjunction with our participation in the TNFD Forum*², as part of our information disclosure based on the TNFD Framework*³, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of risks and opportunities by introducing the LEAP approach*⁴ proposed by the TNFD, to evaluate environmental risks and nature-related impacts of our business and consider appropriate responses as part of our information disclosure under the TNFD framework.

As a TNFD Early Adopter, “K” LINE will enhance information disclosure based on a comprehensive understanding of climate change and natural capital and aim to achieve sustainable growth and increase corporate value as a trusted partner to all stakeholders.

*1. TNFD Early Adopters are companies and organizations that have registered on the TNFD website their intention to disclose information in accordance with the TNFD recommendations and are required to do so for either FY2024 or FY2025.

https://tnfd.global/engage/tnfd-adopters/

*2. The TNFD Forum consists of companies, financial institutions, and research organizations that have joined to support the discussions at TNFD and assist in the establishment of the framework.

November13, 2023: Participation in the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) Forum.

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/csr/csr-20231113.html

*3. October 17, 2023: Disclosure of information based on the TNFD Framework

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/csr/csr-20231017-2.html

*4. It is an integrated evaluation process for managing nature-related risks and opportunities advocated by the TNFD for information disclosure, consisting of four phases: Locate (interface with nature), Evaluate (dependencies and impacts on nature), Assess (significant nature-related risks and opportunities), and Prepare (for responses and reporting).

Please refer to the following website page of “K” LINE for details on LEAP analysis.

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/sustainability/environment/impact_mitigation/main/0119/teaserItems1/05/linkList/0/link/20231011TNFD%20report3_eng.pdf