Transport communications

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“K” Line Releases Video Update on Medium-Term Management Plan and FY2024 Results

May 8, 2025 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has released a video on its official website explaining the progress of its medium-term management plan and the results for FY2024. Initially shared on “K” Line With, the Group’s internal video communication platform, the video is now available to a broader audience.

“K”LINE’s latest video on Financial results for FY2024 & Medium-term Management plan Progress

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/corporate/kline_with.html

“K” Line With details the progress of the medium-term management plan on a quarterly basis, providing explanations of the latest earnings forecasts and also focuses on initiatives which consider the three important points of the medium-term management plan, specifically, the business strategy, the functional strategy and the capital policy. By doing so, it communicates the progress in the medium-term management plan to people in the “K” LINE Group and a broad range of other stakeholders.

The first half of the video explains the FY2024 earnings results and FY2025 earnings forecasts.

The latter half of the video details how “K” LINE will be a company that is chosen by customers and partners through continuous efforts to strengthen its functional strategy and achieves a growth strategy capitalizing on low carbon and decarbonization initiatives as opportunities.

“K” LINE has posted the video on its official website in addition to “K” Line With to make outside stakeholders more aware of the Company’s activities. “K” LINE also aims to deepen understanding of the medium-term management plan among business sites on land and sea within the Group, globally promote internal communication and information sharing, encourage a sense of solidarity as a source of the Group’s strength, and reinforce the foundation of its business operations.

(A news release related to “K” Line With)
November 17, 2023: Sharing Information within the Group Using Video Communication Site for Employees “K” Line With
https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/other/other-20231117.html

Filed Under: "K" Line

“K” Line : Financial Highlights for FY2024

May 8, 2025 by

Please be advised that “K” LINE Tokyo Head Office published the following press release today. 

Please refer to the attached PDF documents for details.

・Financial Highlights for FY2024

This document is also available on their website both in English and Japanese.

( <https://www.kline.co.jp/en/>)

Filed Under: "K" Line

Laying the Groundwork for Infrastructure Investment in Cabo Verde: HPC Finalises Pre-Feasibility Study for Porto Fundo Terminal

May 1, 2025 by

Comprehensive market analysis, terminal layout, and financial assessment set the stage for investor engagement and next-phase feasibility planning in Cabo Verde.

Hamburg/Santa Cruz, 30 April 2025 – HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) has successfully delivered a pre-feasibility study for the development of a bulk cargo terminal at Porto Fundo in Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde. Commissioned by Spanish infrastructure company COPISA, the study provides a foundation for assessing the viability of a new terminal on the island of Santiago and sets the course for further investment planning.

Representatives of COPISA, AFRICOM, the Municipality of Santa Cruz and HPC, and it was taken at the Municipality of Santa Cruz.

Located on Cabo Verde’s largest and most populous island, Santiago, Porto Fundo is strategically positioned to serve the country’s key agricultural region and half of its population. As part of the Sotavento Islands, Santiago also plays an important historical and logistical role within the archipelago, lying between the islands of Maio and Fogo and home to the nation’s capital, Praia.

In its assessment, HPC analysed the market potential of a new bulk terminal, considering the competitive landscape, proposed cargo mix, investment and operational costs, and price positioning. Building on this foundation, HPC developed a terminal operations and layout concept, complemented by a financial analysis to support the next stage of planning and investor engagement.

The study is intended to serve as a business case for attracting financing from various sources, including multilateral and development finance institutions, and to initiate a detailed feasibility phase. COPISA, which intends to construct the terminal and secure financing in collaboration with AFRICOM, a Mauritanian investment company, engaged HPC to deliver the independent assessment as a first step. A local subsidiary has already been established to manage port construction and implementation of operations.

“This project responds to the growing need for efficient port infrastructure to support the economic development of Cabo Verde. By improving bulk handling capacity, the terminal at Porto Fundo can strengthen local supply chains, reduce import costs, and contribute to the country’s long-term growth with new export opportunities. The terminal will also provide capacity for the regional transhipment of grain and hydrocarbons and, in the future, hydrogen products. The pre-feasibility study lays the groundwork for turning this vision into a concrete investment opportunity,” said José Manuel Valero Pérez, Managing Director of COPISA Cabo Verde.

The final report includes detailed market demand projections, confirming a long-term need for dry and liquid bulk handling capacity in Cabo Verde. In response to project-specific requirements, the terminal design was refined to accommodate the handling of hydrocarbons, ensuring alignment with anticipated cargo flows and operational needs.

“The future bulk terminal at Porto Fundo will be more than a logistics asset – it will open up new business opportunities for Cape Verde and make the islands an important maritime hub on the West African coast,” said Dr Martin Schramm, the responsible Project Manager at HPC. “By localising key cargo handling capacities, Cabo Verde can reduce dependency on transshipment routes, stabilise supply chains for essential goods like construction materials or grain, and strengthen its economic autonomy. Our study shows that with targeted investment, this vision is well within reach.”

In early April, representatives from HPC, COPISA, AFRICOM, and other stakeholders met with the government of Cabo Verde to present the results of the study. The project received full political support, and the process for establishing a public-private joint venture to realise the port development was initiated. As a first step, COPISA, AFRICOM, and the municipality of Santa Cruz signed initial documents formalising their collaboration. HPC will continue to support the project’s advancement through future planning and implementation phases.

The Porto Fundo study reflects HPC’s broader commitment to supporting sustainable infrastructure development in island contexts, where tailored planning, realistic investment pathways and close stakeholder collaboration are essential.

For more information, please contact: Steffi Karsten, HPC Marketing / PR, E-Mail: s.karsten@hpc-hamburg.de

About HPC
HPC Hamburg Port Consulting empowers ports, terminals, and hinterland operators worldwide to achieve efficient operations, sustainable growth, and sound investment decisions. Founded in 1976, HPC has delivered over 1,900 projects across 135 countries, guiding clients through every stage of the port project cycle.

HPC’s core expertise includes automation, AI-driven operations, and digitalization, with solutions like Port Community Systems and Maritime Single Windows transforming the way ports operate. At the same time, HPC offers a comprehensive portfolio of consulting services, addressing challenges from facility optimization to strategic decision-making – all tailored to unlock efficiencies and drive long-term success.

With a team of about 100 specialists – including terminal operators, data scientists, and logistics professionals – HPC blends deep industry insight with cutting-edge technology to deliver impactful solutions. From container and breakbulk handling to multipurpose facilities and hinterland logistics, HPC builds on decades of experience to help clients achieve sustainable prosperity.www.hamburgportconsulting.com

HPC legt Grundlage für Hafeninvestitionen auf den Kapverden: Vormachbarkeitsstudie für Terminal Porto Fundo abgeschlossen

Marktanalyse, Terminalkonzept und Finanzbewertung schaffen Basis für Investorenansprache und weitere Planungen.

Hamburg/Santa Cruz, 30. April 2025 – HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) hat erfolgreich eine Vormachbarkeitsstudie für den Bau eines Massengutterminals in Porto Fundo, Santa Cruz, Kapverden, abgeschlossen. Beauftragt vom spanischen Infrastrukturunternehmen COPISA, bildet die Studie die Grundlage für die Bewertung der Realisierbarkeit eines neuen Terminals auf der Insel Santiago und definiert die nächsten Schritte der Investitionsplanung.

Porto Fundo liegt auf Santiago, der größten und bevölkerungsreichsten Insel der Kapverden. Strategisch positioniert, erschließt der Standort das wichtigste landwirtschaftliche Anbaugebiet des Landes und versorgt rund die Hälfte der Bevölkerung. Als Teil der Sotavento-Inseln spielt Santiago zudem eine bedeutende historische und logistische Rolle im Archipel – zwischen den Inseln Maio und Fogo gelegen und Heimat der Hauptstadt Praia.

Im Rahmen der Studie analysierte HPC das Marktpotenzial des neuen Massengutterminals und berücksichtigte dabei die Wettbewerbssituation, das geplante Güterspektrum, Investitions- und Betriebskosten sowie Preisstrategien. Aufbauend auf diesen Ergebnissen entwickelte HPC ein Betriebskonzept sowie einen Flächen- und Layoutentwurf für das Terminal, ergänzt durch eine Finanzanalyse zur Vorbereitung der nächsten Projektphasen.

Die Vormachbarkeitsstudie soll als Grundlage für eine fundierte Investitionsvorlage zur Gewinnung von Finanzierungspartnern – darunter multilaterale und Entwicklungsfinanzierungsinstitutionen – dienen und die Grundlage für eine detaillierte Machbarkeitsprüfung bilden. COPISA, das den Bau des Terminals in Zusammenarbeit mit AFRICOM, einem mauretanischen Investmentunternehmen, umsetzen will, beauftragte HPC mit der Erstellung dieser unabhängigen Bewertung. Eine lokale Tochtergesellschaft wurde bereits gegründet, um den Bau und späteren Betrieb des Hafens zu organisieren.

„Dieses Projekt reagiert auf den zunehmenden Bedarf an effizienter Hafeninfrastruktur, um die wirtschaftliche Entwicklung der Kapverden zu fördern. Durch den Ausbau der Massengutkapazitäten kann das Terminal Porto Fundo lokale Lieferketten stärken, Importkosten senken und neue Exportchancen schaffen. Zudem wird es Kapazitäten für den regionalen Umschlag von Getreide, Kohlenwasserstoffen und perspektivisch auch Wasserstoffprodukten bieten. Diese Studie bildet das Fundament, um diese Vision in eine konkrete Investitionsmöglichkeit zu überführen,“ erläuterte José Manuel Valero Pérez, Geschäftsführer von COPISA Cabo Verde.

Der Abschlussbericht enthält eine detaillierte Analyse der Marktnachfrage und bestätigt den langfristigen Bedarf an Umschlagskapazitäten für trockene und flüssige Massengüter. Zudem wurde das Terminaldesign projektspezifisch angepasst, um auch den Umschlag von Kohlenwasserstoffen zu ermöglichen und zukünftigen Ladungsstrukturen gerecht zu werden.

„Das zukünftige Massengutterminal in Porto Fundo wird mehr als ein logistisches Drehkreuz sein – es eröffnet neue wirtschaftliche Perspektiven für die Kapverden und stärkt die Position der Inselgruppe als maritimer Knotenpunkt an der westafrikanischen Küste,“ sagte Dr. Martin Schramm, verantwortlicher Projektleiter bei HPC. „Mit dem Aufbau eigener Umschlagskapazitäten können die Kapverden ihre Abhängigkeit von Transshipment-Routen verringern, die Versorgungssicherheit für wichtige Güter wie Baustoffe und Getreide erhöhen und die wirtschaftliche Eigenständigkeit stärken. Unsere Analyse zeigt, dass diese Vision mit gezielten Investitionen realisierbar ist.“

Anfang April trafen sich Vertreter von HPC, COPISA, AFRICOM und weiteren Partnern mit der kapverdischen Regierung, um die Ergebnisse der Studie zu präsentieren. Das Projekt erhielt volle politische Unterstützung. Im Anschluss wurde der Prozess zur Gründung eines öffentlich-privaten Joint Ventures angestoßen. Als ersten Schritt unterzeichneten COPISA, AFRICOM und die Gemeinde Santa Cruz die Dokumente, die die Gründung in die Wege leiten. HPC wird den weiteren Entwicklungs- und Umsetzungsprozess weiterhin aktiv begleiten.

Die Vormachbarkeitsstudie zum Terminal Porto Fundo steht exemplarisch für HPCs Engagement, nachhaltige Infrastrukturprojekte in Inselregionen voranzutreiben – mit maßgeschneiderten Konzepten, realistischen Investitionspfaden und enger Zusammenarbeit mit lokalen Partnern.

Für weitere Informationen wenden Sie sich bitte an: Steffi Karsten, HPC-Marketing / PR, E-Mail: s.karsten@hpc-hamburg.de

Über HPC

HPC Hamburg Port Consulting unterstützt weltweit Hafenbetreiber, Terminals und Hinterlandlogistiker dabei, effiziente Betriebsabläufe, nachhaltiges Wachstum und fundierte Investitionsentscheidungen zu erreichen. Seit der Gründung im Jahr 1976 hat HPC mehr als 1.900 Projekte in 135 Ländern erfolgreich realisiert und begleitet Kunden entlang des gesamten Hafenprojektzyklus.

Das Kerngeschäft von HPC umfasst Automatisierung, KI-gestützte Betriebsabläufe und Digitalisierung. Lösungen wie Port Community Systems und Maritime Single Windows verändern nachhaltig die Arbeitsweise von Häfen. Gleichzeitig bietet HPC ein umfassendes Beratungsportfolio, das von der Optimierung bestehender Anlagen bis zur strategischen Entscheidungsfindung reicht – stets mit dem Ziel, Effizienzpotenziale zu heben und langfristigen Erfolg zu sichern.

Mit einem Team von rund 100 Spezialisten – darunter Terminalbetreiber, Data Scientists und Logistikexperten – verbindet HPC fundierte Branchenkenntnis mit modernster Technologie, um wirkungsvolle Lösungen zu entwickeln. Ob Containerumschlag, Breakbulk-Handling, Multipurpose-Terminals oder Hinterlandlogistik – HPC baut auf jahrzehntelanger Erfahrung auf, um seine Kunden auf dem Weg zu nachhaltigem wirtschaftlichem Erfolg zu begleiten. www.hamburgportconsulting.com

Filed Under: HPC Hamburg Port Consulting

ICHCA : Crucial amendment to IMDG Code on Ammonium Nitrate sanctioned by the IMO

May 1, 2025 by

The global cargo handling association ICHCA International (ICHCA) welcomes the recent IMO decision to amend a key aspect of the IMDG Code governing ammonium nitrate shipments to significantly improve their safe transportation by sea and highlights its  importance as part of the association’s Dangerous Goods Awareness campaign.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved changes to its maritime safety regulations in the form of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code to improve the safety of ammonium nitrate transport by sea. ICHCA is drawing attention to the move, as well as  other changes to the IMDG Code designed to improve safety when   shipping  handling and carrying  dangerous goods via its  awareness campaign throughout 2025. 

This particular change affects Clause 7.6.2.8.4 and reinforces that carriage of UN 1942 Ammonium Nitrate and UN 2067 Ammonium Nitrate Based Fertilizer under deck is only permitted if hatches including tween deck hatches are capable of being opened up in an emergency so that effective firefighting through maximum ventilation and boundary cooling can be undertaken.

The amendment follows an ICHCA prepared White Paper* on the subject lodged with IMO in 2022, which recommended clarification of the relevant IMDG Clause.  “Although not mandatory until 1st January 2026 it can be applied  on a voluntary basis from January 2025. ICHCA is urging all those involved in the maritime transport of ammonium nitrate to abide by the new regulation immediately,” says CEO Richard Steele.  “The work by our Technical Panel over several months made the case for amending the IMDG Code very clear, backed by thorough understanding of the properties of these compounds and by detailed guidance on how such risks could be mitigated.”

The risks posed by poor conditions of storage of ammonium nitrate, which is used extensively in the fertilisers and explosives industries, had been well documented but awareness of the dangers of fire during transportation by sea was less well recognised until the ICHCA White Paper showed the risks on vessels chartered to ship these compounds   through ports around the world.

Ammonium Nitrate (NH₄NO₃), a white to grey odourless chemical has a melting point of 169 degrees C and decomposes at 210 degrees C. While it does not burn by itself, it will significantly accelerate burning of combustible material.  “These properties in particular demand careful consideration of how and where ammonium nitrate is stowed on board vessels,” says the paper’s lead author Brian Devaraj, who is a member of ICHCA’s Technical Panel. “Ammonium nitrate fires can escalate out of control very rapidly. To help prevent consequential loss of life and damage, the new provisions laid out in the IMDG Code, in particular clause 7.6.2.8.4 should be complied with at all times.”

“This seemingly unremarkable clause is in fact crucial to safe shipping of ammonium nitrate,” explains Devaraj. “7.6.2.8.4 states that certain product with specified UN Numbers may be stowed under deck in a clean cargo space capable of being opened in an emergency, including need to open hatches in case of fire to provide maximum ventilation and to apply water.  This of course precludes a hold containing ammonium nitrate to be over-stowed with another cargo.” 

The intention of the amendment is to avoid any misunderstanding on this point, clarifying that all vessel hatches – including tween decks and any other compartments- should be openable in case of an ammonium nitrate fire. “Of particular concern is where this product is carried in multi-layered compartments of conventional reefer vessels, wherein compliance to this clause is next to impossible. Several jurisdictions, that handle the product in significant quantities, have already taken heed of this risk. Countries including Australia, South Africa and Chile have specific regulatory requirements. This newly worded clause in the IMDG will eliminate any ambiguity on its application to all types of ships including bulk, multipurpose tween deckers, conventional reefer vessels etc.” Devaraj concluded.

“The guidance of these authorities as well as the in-depth explanation of the significance of Clause 7.6.2.8.4 wording is contained within our White Paper and we at ICHCA are enthusiastically promoting the amendment and its immediate application by all involved in the ammonium nitrate trade,” concludes Steele.

*The whitepaper, ‘Ammonium Nitrate Fire Risk on Board Ships’ is available for free download Here

Notes to Editors:

About ICHCA International

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 plus 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.

www.ichca.com

Filed Under: ICHCA

GEODIS partners with DOLFINES to develop an innovative XXL lifting device for offshore wind applications

April 29, 2025 by

GEODIS announces the signing of a cooperation agreement with DOLFINES for the development and commercialization of a port-based version of a high-capacity lifting device dedicated to floating offshore wind projects.

Photo credit @ Getty

Through its subsidiary Sealogis, GEODIS will support DOLFINES—an engineering company specializing in energy industry solutions—in the adaptation and industrialization of a “Mobile XXL” version of the OHME (Offshore Heavy Maintenance Enabler) lifting system. This innovative solution will be capable of installing offshore wind components weighing between 800 and 1,000 tons, meeting the logistical needs of next-generation power generation projects (15 to 20 MW). The technology aims to provide a high-performance, more flexible alternative to ring cranes currently in use.

This ten-year agreement grants GEODIS exclusive rights to market the Mobile XXL OHME system across several strategic markets in Europe. DOLFINES will retain intellectual property rights and patents for the technology. GEODIS will be involved in the commercial development of future contracts.

Nicolas Bonnier, Global Manager Offshore Wind Solution, Project Logistics at GEODIS, stated: “GEODIS supports offshore wind players with a comprehensive offering which encompasses engineering, logistics, and specialized transport. In a context marked by the complexity of assembly operations and a scarcity of suitable equipment, we identified the potential of the OHME Port tool developed by DOLFINES. It offers a viable, scalable, and sustainable solution to meet the logistical challenges of the new generation of wind turbines. Our engineering teams are already working on the design of this Mobile XXL version.”

This partnership is fully aligned with GEODIS’ strategy to accelerate the development of innovative, low-impact logistics solutions, particularly in the renewable energy sector.

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. The Group operates a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 50,000 employees. In 2024, GEODIS generated €11.3 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group.

Filed Under: GEODIS

Cargo theft report reveals rapidly shifting criminal tactics and emerging targets

April 24, 2025 by

The BSI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report gives a detailed analysis of targeted commodities, prime locations for theft, regional hotspots and evolving strategies employed across the world. Detailed case studies are outlined and risk mitigation advice proffered.

London, 23April, 2025

Of incidents analysed:

  • Food and beverages were most frequently stolen — 22%
  • 76% involved trucks, including 21% hijackings and 20% theft of vehicles
  • Nearly half occurred when cargo was in transit
  • Theft from facilities was down from a quarter in 2023 to 18%
  • Hotspots included Brazil, Mexico, India, USA, Germany, Chile and South Africa
  • ‘Strategic’ theft was the standout growth trend
  • Internet-enabled crime also continues as a significant facilitator

While the Report’s statistical analysis of cargo theft types and top commodities stolen year on year (see graphic below) is revealing, it is the qualitative information and insight into the methods used by criminal that is most useful in combatting theft. 

As Tony Pelli, Global Practice Director for Security & Resilience at BSI Consulting, “The growth in strategic crime, defined as that utilizing deception, fraud, and advanced planning is the most remarkable finding in our Report. This weapon in the criminals’ ever-evolving armament now involves impersonation and document forgery as well as leveraging AI technologies to manipulate bills of lading and orchestrate remote operations. The degree of sophistication employed shows that organised crime’s knowledge of supply chain vulnerabilities is deepening.”

This strategic methodology was particularly noted in the US where 18% of all incidents were identified as a strategically planned thefts. Indeed, one of the Report’s detailed case studies itemises an organised crime’s campaign of theft from railcars in California and Arizona using such tactics.  Elsewhere case studies help cargo owners and transport operators put real-life flesh on the statistical bones; including metal theft in South Africa, pharmaceuticals targeted in India, violent hijackings in South America and theft from trucks on the move (so-called ‘rollover’ theft’) prevalent in Europe.

On behalf of TT, Mike Yarwood, Managing Director, Loss Prevention comments, “Our prime focus is to inform providing actionable insight to assist with risk mitigation. In this regard, it is vital to track current trends in criminal activity.  The burgeoning use of the internet, though  available for nefarious action for some years, is constantly spawning new technologies and  should not be overlooked. Techniques such as harnessing AI to create phishing emails, deep fakes, and malware aimed at accessing sensitive freight information and reports of attacks targeting cloud-based storage services are becoming more common.”

“If it is too good to be true, then it probably is” – is the essence of the sound advice offered by BSI Consulting and TT to those in the supply chain open to the risk of theft.  In a concluding section of the Report there is a comprehensive list of strategies to employ in risk mitigation, in particular to protect assets from theft.  These range from care over the security of email and other electronic communication to screening and vetting of third-party contractors; also from monitoring and response through reliable tracking services to keen awareness of alterations to regular delivery and pick-up locations.

“Above all,” emphasises Yarwood, “An overarching strategy to protect against cargo loss must be based on robust due diligence.  To know and trust as much as possible customers, carriers and contractors alike and to be cognisant of the criminals’ intent and level of cunning.”

SI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report is available for download free of charge BSI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report – TT Club

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. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services. www.ttclub.com

About BSI Consulting

BSI Consulting enables clients’ sustainable growth by empowering their people and strengthening their physical and digital assets, upstream and downstream within the supply chain. Our diverse client base is wide-reaching, spanning across healthcare, pharma, manufacturing, government/public agencies, ICT, and more. A large percentage of our clients are Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 companies, showcasing our expertise in serving some of the world’s most influential organizations.

To learn more, please visit: www.bsigroup.com/consulting-us

About BSI Consulting Supply Chain Security Solutions

Our comprehensive supply chain resilience program integrates sustainability at every level, focusing on four key areas: strategy, assessment, monitoring, and response. By aligning strategic goals, addressing vulnerabilities, continuously monitoring risks, and enabling rapid, sustainable responses, consulting ensures a secure, resilient, and environmentally responsible supply chain that extends across all suppliers and operations.

To learn more, please visit www.bsigroup.com/en-US/products-and-services/consulting/supply-chain-security-risk/

Filed Under: TT Club

“K” Line : Newbuilding LNG vessel for QatarEnergy Named “AL TUWAR”

April 22, 2025 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) is pleased to announce that a joint venture company *1 held naming ceremony for 174,000m3 LNG vessel for QatarEnergy *2 at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd on 17 April.  The vessel was named “AL TUWAR” by Ms. Shi Dai, Director and President of China Merchants Group Limited. is derived from the name of a hill in Al Wakrah, a major city in Qatar.

LNG vessel “AL TUWAR”

The vessel is the first of a series of 12 LNG vessels that the joint venture companies will build for QatarEnergy.

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

The newbuilding vessel is equipped with X-DF 2.1 iCER *3 which will contribute to reduction of GHG emissions and realize the ease of environmental impact by lower fuel consumption in operation.

In its Medium-Term Management Plan published in May 2022*4, “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.

Naming ceremony for “AL TUWAR”
Filed Under: "K" Line

A new appointment to the GEODIS Management Board

April 16, 2025 by

GEODIS, world leader in transport and logistics, announces the appointment of Hervé Cornède as Executive Vice-President, Public Affairs at GEODIS. He will be a member of the Group’s Management Board, which is chaired by Marie-Christine Lombard, Chief Executive Officer of GEODIS.

Hervé Cornède, Executive Vice-President, Public Affairs at GEODIS
Photo credit : GEODIS

Hervé Cornède has 30 years’ experience in transport and logistics sector. Between 2009 and 2018, he was a member of the Executive Board of the Port of Le Havre. In 2012, he helped set up the Haropa Port EIG (economic interest group), and served as Marketing and Sales Director until 2018, when he became Chairman of the Executive Board of the SOGET Group. He is also a French Foreign Trade Advisor (CCEF), a role that involves promoting and supporting the international development of French companies.

He holds a master’s in international transport and logistics from the University of Paris 1 Sorbonne.

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. The Group operates a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and 50,000 employees. In 2024, GEODIS generated €11.3 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group.

Filed Under: GEODIS

“K” LINE to Support Victims of Earthquake in Myanmar

April 16, 2025 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has decided to provide a monetary donation of 2 million yen through the Japanese Red Cross Society toward relief efforts in the areas damaged by the earthquake that hit the central Myanmar on March 28, 2025.

“K” LINE would express its most sincere sympathy to all those affected by the earthquake and pray for the soonest recovery of the damaged area.

Filed Under: "K" Line

TT Club : Supply chain fraud – the dangers of granting extended credit

April 14, 2025 by

In a competitive market where the promise of profitable new business is alluring international freight transport insurer TT Club is issuing a warning to freight forwarders and logistics operators to beware of fraudulent customers offering lucrative loads.

London, 14th April 2025

Fraudulent strategies can prove extremely profitable to the international criminal fraternity and the global supply chain is typically low risk due to the remote nature of the actual physical theft of goods.   TT Club has regularly highlighted the risks of theft through fraudulent documents, mandate fraud, fraudulent truckers, and trucking companies presenting themselves to collect cargo and more recently fraudulent freight forwarders or brokers.

Now the insurer is drawing attention to another type of fraud prevalent over the last twelve months; that of credit fraud. TT’s Logistics Risk Manager Josh Finch comments, “Credit fraud is an exposure to all in the global supply chain and a danger that ought to be considered through the risk management structure of every business. This is primarily a financial risk as operators are left with freight costs that can’t be collected. The losses as a result of such fraud can escalate quickly.”

The methodologies of criminals may vary but they all prey on the priority of all operators to maximise revenue in a highly competitive commercial environment. A brief example can help illustrate the dangers.  Finch explains, “A new customer approaches with a single shipment, typically to transport internationally, for instance from Bangladesh to Spain. The ocean shipment will be completed by road at source and destination.  There is a suggestion this could be the start of a potentially large and lucrative contract.   A rate is agreed and a 60-day credit facility arranged. On completion of the shipment the freight account is settled within the agreed 60 days.”  

What follows, from the operator’s point of view seems favourable, as four more consignments of clothing are booked on similar terms to the first. Then the ‘sting’ is put in place as these consignments become urgent and must be sent by air.  Several more air freight shipments occur regularly over a three-week period.  All successfully delivered. 

However after that, communications to the customer go unanswered; the 60-day credit period expires, and the freight account goes unsettled. The operator is left with significant carrier costs and no revenue.

TT urges operators to engage in extensive due diligence when advancing credit to new customers and points to advice from the British International Freight Association (BIFA).  Based on the unfortunate experiences of a number of its members, BIFA highlights some similar characteristics shared by this type of fraudulent ‘customers’ :

  • Customer wants only airfreight handled
  • No customs clearance or delivery at destination required
  • Completely new contacts, never previously engaged with operator
  • Large volumes of cargo involved
  • Customer accepts the quote without negotiation
  • No record of customer ever importing or exporting previously on the UK’s HMRC Traders website

Concluding Finch emphasises, “Undoubtedly the best course is to withhold extended credit such as 60 days until a trusting relationship has been established with a customer. If commercial necessities dictate offering a more immediate credit facility then careful due diligence is vital. It is wise to maintain that primary risk management revolves around knowledge of your customer at all levels including regulatory compliance, safety, and security.”

Full details of TT’s due diligence checklist is available on page 10 of the ‘Supply chain security bulletin’ 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. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.

www.ttclub.com

Filed Under: TT Club
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