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“K” LINE Held Global IT Conference 2024

December 2, 2024 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) held a global IT conference in mid-November with the goal of promoting its digital transformation (DX) strategy and strengthening security.

21 IT/DX specialists from 11 countries and regions representing major bases of “K” LINE’s global network came to Japan for a conference attended by a total of 42 people, which also included the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of “K” LINE and relevant people from the Digitalization Strategy Group and “K” Line Business Systems Co., Ltd., a “K” LINE Group IT company. For two days, they participated in workshops and energetically discussed more than 20 agenda items including solid IT infrastructure to enable the more than 5,600 employees of the “K” LINE Group to work with a feeling of security, advanced and reliable security measures for customers and solutions, DX-related projects introduced at different bases, and other topics.

The scale of business and IT varies from country to country and from base to base, but “K” LINE believes that sharing the results of IT and DX efforts should help improve its customer services in each country and region. They realized that facilitating efforts to leverage IT/DX to maintain “K” LINE’s core values, safety, environmental consciousness and quality, will result in the enhancement of the “K” LINE Group’s corporate value. They also recognized that the head office and business locations of the global network should collaborate more closely and accelerate the improvement and enhancement of the IT/DX environment in many regions.

“K” LINE is driving digitalization as a functional strategy for achieving its business strategy under the Medium-term Management Plan announced in May 2022. It will continue to strive to be a group of reliable professionals in maritime transportation that its stakeholders can trust, and together with “K” LINE’s IT family, it will contribute to enhancing corporate value and solving social issues in the fields of IT and DX.

Reference
DX Strategy of “K” LINE announced in December 22, 2022
https://www.kline.co.jp/en/sustainability/dx_strategy.html

Filed Under: "K" Line

Change of leadership at TT Club’s Singapore Branch as Yiah Soon Ng retires

November 28, 2024 by

International freight insurer, TT Club, announces the appointment of Kamel Tlili as Chief Executive of its Singapore branch as Yiah Soon Ng retires after leading Thomas Miller’s Singapore office since 2009.

London & Singapore, 27 November 2024

After five years as Chief Executive for TT Club and having led Thomas Miller’s Singapore operations for 15 years, Yiah Soon (YS) Ng has announced his retirement. He is succeeded as Chief Executive by Kamel Tlili, TT Club’s Regional General Manager Asia Pacific, who took over the role in September.

Yiah Soon (YS) Ng

Kamel was appointed Regional General Manager Asia Pacific 12 months ago and will now additionally act as CE Singapore Branch.  He is well known in the marine mutual community, having previously spent 14 years at TT’s sister mutual, UK P&I Club, both as an Underwriting Director and Claims Director and six years leading British Marine’s P&I Underwriting division in Asia at QBE. During his first year at TT Club, he has advanced the Club’s reputation in South East Asia as a market leading provider of mutual insurance to the transport and logistics industry, with unparalleled loss prevention support for its membership.

New Chief Executive, Kamel Tlili, TT Club’s Regional General Manager Asia Pacific

Speaking of the appointment, Kevin King, TT Club CEO said, “In the brief time since returning to Thomas Miller, Kamel has already made great headway in expanding the Club’s reach in the Singapore and wider South East Asian markets, ensuring the Club’s Members and the broader insurance market know that TT is committed to providing unparalleled local support and coverage.”

YS joined Thomas Miller (S.E. Asia) Pty Ltd in 1997 as claims manager for both TT Club and UK P&I Club’s Singapore Branch. In 2009, YS was appointed as Chief Executive of the UK P&I Club Branch, before also being appointed as Chief Executive for the TT Club’s Singapore Branch in 2017. He has held the role of General Manager of the Thomas Miller Singapore office since 2009. 

“YS has been instrumental in leading the Club’s operations in Singapore, and I am grateful to have had his support during my first year at TT Club,” said Kamel. “He has laid the solid foundation on which we will build over the coming years; Singapore is a critical hub for the South East Asian market and it is fitting for TT to further consolidate a strong presence for its local membership. I look forward to leading this effort. ”

Kamel began his new role as Chief Executive, Singapore Branch on 1 September 2024.

ENDS

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. Its 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, working across maritime, road, rail and air. 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.

https://www.ttclub.com

Filed Under: TT Club

New report highlights alarming freight crime trend in Italy

November 28, 2024 by

The latest analysis from international freight insurer, TT Club, resilience and security network, Transported Asset Protection Association, and business improvement consultants BSI SCREEN, reports dramatic increase in freight crime in Italy with incidents of theft quadrupling in the last two years.

London, 27 November 2024

The report highlights:

  • More than 400% increase in the frequency of insurance claims since 2021
  • Nearly a third of claims arising from theft from vehicles parked insecurely or at the roadside
  • The region of Lombardy as the region with the highest rates of cargo theft
  • Significant lack of secure parking with only one space per 289 trucks
  • Notable increase in cargo theft from rail
  • Emerging trend of drone usage by criminals to investigate possible target sites

TT Club, in collaboration with BSI SCREEN and TAPA EMEA, underscores the increasing threat to the Italian supply chain pose chiefly by organised crime and its sophisticated theft methods.  The extensive report, which draws on the wide-reaching data resources of the three organisations, shines a spotlight on the dynamic and evolving nature of freight crime in Italy, and the steps necessary to combat the threat. 

Like many countries, Italy is seeing a rise in strategically planned cargo theft, with criminal groups employing ever more sophisticated means to infiltrate the legitimate supply chain. The report highlights however that Italy is particularly attractive to thieves due to its well-known market of luxury and designer goods. Indeed, clothing, apparel and pharmaceuticals are noted as the most targeted commodities.

“Italy is not alone in experiencing concerning increases in cargo theft,” comments Josh Finch, Logistics Risk Manager at TT Club. “We are seeing the same trends across the board, with major highways and industrial hubs becoming key targets for criminals. The statistics clearly highlight the key issue: cargo at rest, unsecurely parked, parked on the roadside, around these main intersections, is most at risk.”

“A lack of access to safe and secure parking is a global problem, of which Italy is an acute example,” comments Panayiotis Laimos, Standards and Training Support, TAPA EMEA. “At TAPA, we create standards that focus on all risks within an end-to-end supply chain risk mitigation model. We must focus on a ‘goods at rest are goods at risk’ strategy and combine people and technology on the best way.”

The co-authors outline the increasingly sophisticated means used by criminals to access cargo, specifically the emerging use of drones as a reconnaissance tool. “Many modern drones may operate for 30+ minutes, more than enough time to stake out a site, noting its vulnerabilities, the location of security cameras and guard stations. They are quiet, have excellent visibility and are often difficult to spot; we have even seen cases of drones entering warehouse facilities unobserved through open bay doors. In this way, thieves are increasingly able to build a profile of the goods that are stored and exactly where to find them,” explains Finch.

As with all awareness reports of this nature, TT and its co-authors are keen to offer guidance on how such theft risks can be alleviated with advice. The report contains preventative measures ranging from drone-disabling technology, radio frequency jammers, secure parking technology and the crucial importance of due diligence. “With the help of our partners, utilising a wide range of in-depth data resources, TT is committed to lifting the lid on international cargo crime to ensure the industry is better equipped to mitigate both large-scale and attritional cargo theft losses,” concludes Finch.

The full report is available for free download TT Club, BSI and TAPA EMEA | Freight crime in Italian Supply Chains

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. Its 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, working across maritime, road, rail and air. 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.

https://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

Filed Under: TT Club

PSA Singapore and Evergreen Marine Establish Joint Venture for Container Terminal Operations in Singapore

November 28, 2024 by

PSA Singapore (PSA) and Evergreen Marine Corporation (EMC) have established a joint venture in Singapore, aiming to enhance operational excellence and achieve greater synergies in container operations.

Evergreen Marine Chairman, Mr Y I Chang and Mr Ong Kim Pong, Group CEO of PSA International

The joint venture terminal is expected to commence operations by the end of 2024. This strategic partnership will offer long-term terminal capacity assurance to EMC’s fast expanding global vessel fleet in PSA Singapore.

PSA and EMC will continue to deepen their collaboration to enhance operational efficiency, drive digital innovation, and advance sustainability efforts. This strengthened partnership, with a shared commitment to leading technological advancements and innovation, will ensure PSA and EMC consistently deliver exceptional service and exceed customer expectations.

Mr Ong Kim Pong, Group CEO of PSA International, said, “Trade flows are the lifeblood of the global economy, fueling markets, driving growth and connecting communities worldwide with ports and shipping lines acting as its key enablers. PSA is proud to announce our latest collaboration with Evergreen Marine, a like-minded partner dedicated to advancing global
trade and connectivity. Together, we see immense opportunities to embark on initiatives that will not only enhance supply chain resilience but also reimagine how ports and shipping lines can work in unison, as part of our Node-to-Network (N2N) strategy so as to ensure global trade flows as smoothly as water.”

Mr Nelson Quek, Regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, said, “PSA is pleased to form this strategic joint venture with EMC, building on our longstanding relationship to enhance collaboration and meet the rapidly changing needs of the maritime industry. By integrating our strengths and capabilities, this mutually beneficial partnership will deliver greater value and deepen the synergies between the two organisations over the long term.”

Mr Y.I. Chang, Chairman of EMC, said, “Environmentally friendly ships and efficient terminals are at the core of our operations. As the company’s business expands, we are always looking for like-minded partners to build high-efficiency terminals in important locations. With the culmination of everyone’s hard work comes the launch of Evergreen Marine’s first joint venture terminal with PSA. This achievement not only strengthens our operations in Asia but also marks the beginning of a deeper global partnership between us.”

ABOUT PSA SINGAPORE (PSA)

PSA Singapore operates the world’s largest container transhipment hub in Singapore, handling 38.8 million TEUs of containers in 2023. With connections to 600 ports globally, shippers have access to daily sailings to every major port in the world, operating 24/7 all year round. Beyond port operations, PSA also offers port adjacency services, our unique differentiator in mid-mile logistics, to meet our customers’ dynamic needs. This value adding service, supported by our bespoke port adjacency digital solutions, will provide shared visibility of the end-to-end supply chain. As the partner of choice in the port and supply chain operations, PSA is “The World’s Port of Call”. Visit us at www.singaporepsa.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook (@singaporepsa).

ABOUT EVERGREEN MARINE CORPORATION (EMC)

Established in 1968, Evergreen Marine Corporation is a global container carrier headquartered in Taiwan. The shipping line currently operates a fleet above 220 container ships with a combined capacity around 1.7 million TEU, providing marine transportation service to more than 110 countries across the world via services on a broad array of trade lanes. Since its inception, Evergreen has been a brand which symbolizes innovative, reliable and sustainable global container transportation. For more information, please visit: www.evergreen-marine.com.

Filed Under: Evergreen Line, PSA Singapore

K” LINE Held a Global Meeting for the Car Carrier Business

November 28, 2024 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) held a global meeting for the car carrier business at the company’s head office in mid-November.

Twenty-six local staff members and representatives from five major overseas offices participated in the meeting, which was divided into themed sessions: the sales and strategy were held in the three-day period from November 11 to 13, and the operation and transportation quality held over two days, November 14 and 15.

The sales and strategy sessions were attended by about 30 people in total, including local staff members and representatives from major overseas offices and head office staff. A growth strategy leading to environmental actions and business reinforcement was openly discussed on the basis of a theme, Deep-Diving Competitive Position Analysis and “K” LINE’s Growth Strategy.

A total of about 25 people, including the local staff members and representatives assigned to operation control and procurement at each location and head office staff, attended the operation session and confirmed the sharing of roles and responsibilities between the different offices to achieving optimal operations and procurement. They had a lively discussion about the specific actions that should be taken by each location, with safety and compliance with laws as the foundation for optimal operations, and quality and sustainability as the foundation for optimal procurement being major focuses.

A total of 26 people, including local staff members and representatives from overseas offices and head office staff, attended the transportation quality sessions. They discussed specific examples of accidents and problem solving at each location and reviewed the current cargo handling procedures with the goal of ensuring the increased quality of our transportation services for customers. Moreover, a new scheme for revising the procedures in a timely manner for safe transportation was established.

Through these regular global meetings, the different offices will pursue sustainable business activities by sharing ideals and cooperating with each other. “K” LINE is committed to the development and sustainable growth of the car carrier business and to its social mission of supporting the supply chain of the automotive industry.

Filed Under: "K" Line

“K” LINE to Support Victims of Consecutive Typhoons in the Philippines

November 28, 2024 by

From October to November, six typhoons (From typhoon No.20 to No.25) had made landfall in the Philippines one after another, causing significant damage in various regions.  We would like to pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and express our deepest sympathy to those affected by the disaster.

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has decided to donate 2 million yen through The Rayomar Outreach Foundation, Inc. (ROFI*), a charitable organization established by the Rayomar Group, our business partner in the Philippines, in order to help everyone affected by the disaster as well as to support disaster recovery efforts in the affected areas. In addition, since a large number of seafarers from the Philippines are on board the vessels operated by “K” LINE, we will consider to provide seafarers and their families with financial support.

We sincerely wish for the earliest recovery of the disaster-stricken areas.

*ROFI: a charitable organization to support a livelihood, medical care and education, as well as to as to collect donation and to support volunteering activities.

Filed Under: "K" Line

HPC Verifies Successful Operation of Georgia’s National Maritime Single Window Post-Launch

November 26, 2024 by

A Timely Project Management Success, Boosting Efficiency, Security, and Collaboration in Maritime Operations

Hamburg, 25 November 2024 – HPC Hamburg Port Consulting, in partnership with software provider Prodevelop and local Plisk Consulting, proudly announces a successful post go-live health check of Georgia’s National Maritime Single Window (MSW), a groundbreaking project aimed at transforming the country’s maritime industry. This state-of-the-art digital platform, used by over 400 people in Georgia’s maritime community, successfully passed a thorough process and technical health check, confirming the ultimate achievement: paper-centric processes are now a thing of the past. By fostering transparency and interagency collaboration, it marks a critical step toward the modernization of Georgia’s logistics landscape, positioning the country as a key logistics hub in the Middle Corridor and a gateway to Europe.

The MSW, developed in full compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and aligned with European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) standards, will significantly improve Georgia’s Logistics Index. This platform enables seamless communication between maritime stakeholders, reduces paperwork, and enhances situational awareness by providing transparent operational data. The MSW positions Georgia as a leader in regional maritime innovation, setting the stage for a future integration with the SafeSeaNet (SSN) system.

A Strategic Asset for Georgia’s Maritime Industry

Bycommissioning the MSW, Georgia is joining an elite group of just 2% of maritime communities worldwide to have fully streamlined and digitalized their processes, this move enhances both security and operational efficiency. The MSW eliminates redundant processes, allowing ship agents, port authorities, and other stakeholders to operate with greater ease and confidence. By digitizing information exchange, the platform reduces administrative burden, facilitating faster, safer maritime operations. This cutting-edge system is set to become a pivotal asset for Georgia’s maritime growth and competitiveness.

Aleksi Akhvlediani, Director of the Maritime Transport Agency (MTA), commented on the project’s significance:

“The National Maritime Single Window represents the first critical step in the digital transformation of Georgia’s maritime sector. This platform will enhance our efficiency, align us with global standards, and improve our competitiveness on the international stage.”

Building Trust and Simplifying Processes

The MSW is designed to simplify the complex maritime landscape, reducing friction points and building trust among stakeholders. As Nuno Nunes, Deputy Vice President Europe and Project Lead at HPC, explained:

“By implementing the Maritime Single Window, we are not just enhancing processes; we are building a foundation of trust among all stakeholders. Too often, digital solutions go live without making significant impact. The MSW health check provides assurances beyond the technical Go Live – it ensures user adoption and confirms that the streamlined workflows offered by the MSW are poised to trigger a profound transformation in Georgia’s maritime industry.”

Strategic Partnership for a National Asset

This project has been spearheaded by HPC, in collaboration with software provider Prodevelop and local consultancy Plisk Consulting. Following a competitive tender process, this consortium emerged as the winning team, tasked with defining, designing, developing, and implementing the MSW. The scope of HPC’s involvement includes process definition, requirement engineering, and software implementation support, all in strict adherence to IMO regulations.

Looking Ahead

With the launch of the MSW, Georgia sets a new standard in maritime operations, enhancing its global competitiveness and reinforcing its commitment to secure, efficient, and transparent maritime trade. This initiative is poised to be a catalyst for future digital transformation within the country’s broader logistics landscape.

For more information on IT implementation and community system integration services, please visit the website: www.hamburgportconsulting.com

Contact

Steffi Karsten, HPC Marketing / PR, E-Mail: s.karsten@hpc-hamburg.de

About HPC

HPC Hamburg Port Consulting is a global leader in logistics consulting, driving innovation across ports, terminals, and hinterland logistics. Founded in 1976, the Hamburg-based firm has completed over 1,800 projects in 135 countries, supporting clients throughout the entire port project cycle. HPC specializes in advancing automation, AI-driven operations, and digitalization through solutions like Port Community Systems and Maritime Single Windows. With a team of approximately 100 experts—including terminal operators, data scientists, and logistics specialists—HPC combines deep industry knowledge with cutting-edge technology to optimize operations, unlock efficiencies, and foster sustainable growth. As a subsidiary of the Hamburg Port and Logistics Corporation (HHLA), HPC’s expertise spans container, breakbulk, and multipurpose handling, along with hinterland operations. www.hamburgportconsulting.com

Filed Under: HPC Hamburg Port Consulting

New Report on Global Port Trends: Automation and Digital Innovation Grow Despite Challenges

November 21, 2024 by

Munich & Hamburg, Germany, November 21, 2024:  A new report has been released, highlighting the key automation and digitalization trends transforming the global port and terminal logistics sector. Jointly presented by FERNRIDE, passify, and heyport, with support from HHLA Next and HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC), the report provides essential insights for industry professionals facing the challenges of port modernization.

Picture Credit: ©Fernride
Capture:  A new report highlights key trends in port and terminal automation.

The report, based on an extensive survey conducted in October 2024 via the Port Technology International platform, presents findings and insights from 101 industry professionals. Terminal operators, logistics leaders, and other stakeholders will find valuable guidance on navigating the current landscape and future strategies for adopting new technologies.

“As container terminals face rising demands for efficiency, safety, and sustainability, automation and digitalization have become essential to modern operations,“ comments Peter Szelei, Senior Director of Business Development at FERNRIDE. “Our motivation in creating this report with our partners was to provide the industry with actionable insights that help ports and terminals adopt new technologies smoothly and sustainably. This holistic process requires us to collaborate, learn from one another, and share best practices to keep the entire sector competitive and resilient.”

Key findings from the report:

  • Moderate Automation Rising: Over half of respondents report moving from minimal to moderate automation, with larger terminals advancing faster, while smaller ones focus on incremental, affordable upgrades.
  • Phased Digitalization: With 80% of terminals reaching moderate to high digitalization, technologies like digital twins, predictive analytics, AI, and machine learning are becoming essential for data-driven, streamlined operations.
  • Top Motivators: The main drivers for tech adoption include operational efficiency, cost savings, and data-driven insights, reflecting a push toward improved throughput and resource management.
  • Adoption Challenges: Initial costs, integration issues, and workforce adjustments are key barriers, but gradual investment and scalable solutions help mitigate these challenges.

“Implementing automation and digitalization in ports comes with real hurdles— complexities of existing infrastructure, high initial costs, and the need to bring the workforce along on this journey. These are not easy barriers to overcome. But despite the complexity, we’re seeing that the long-term benefits in efficiency and operational resilience are well worth the effort. Every step forward strengthens our industry’s competitiveness and sets a new standard for safety and productivity”, says Marcel Lindemann, Co-Founder of passify.

FERNRIDE, passify, and heyport bring together expertise in autonomous and digital solutions for the logistics industry. Supported by HHLA Next and HPC, the report embodies a shared commitment to advancing technological innovation in port logistics. For more information and a full report, please visit: https://www.fernride.com/report-on-automation-and-digital-innovation

“This report represents a practical roadmap for sustainable technology adoption, helping ports and terminals make informed, gradual transformations within their capabilities and budget, always according to their vision. Offering strategic guidance on phased automation, interoperability, data infrastructure, and workforce training, the report promotes a resilient and competitive future,” said Danai Antonopoulou, automation expert at HPC.

About FERNRIDE

FERNRIDE offers scalable automation solutions for yard trucking that increase productivity, promote sustainability, and improve worker safety. The company employs a human-assisted autonomy approach, which allows for remote takeovers of trucks when necessary. This ensures seamless integration and reliable operations for logistics operators. With over a decade of research and high-profile customers, including Volkswagen, HHLA, and DB Schenker, FERNRIDE uses cutting-edge technology to address major industry challenges, such as driver shortages and the negative environmental impact of logistics operations. The company was founded by Hendrik Kramer, Maximilian Fisser, and Jean-Michael Georg, and currently has over 150 employees. www.fernride.com

About passify

Passify is a Hamburg-based logistics start-up which digitises and automates truck handling through a self-service app that enables drivers to book slots, check-in digitally and identify

themselves securely via two-factor authentication. Designed to enhance both security and efficiency, passify is already deployed at three major container terminals operated by Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) in Hamburg.

www.passifyapp.de

About heyport

heyport is a digital planning platform fostering smart and sustainable port operations through innovative, real-time collaboration and communication – as a scalable solution across ports worldwide. For terminals, vessel operators, and port communities who lack reliable planning information, heyport is the all-in-one platform that offers out-of-the-box integrations and streamlines communications to plan port calls well ahead of time. heyport is made for all kinds of terminals and cargo, proven by more than 5,000 port calls on the platform from container, ro-ro, and bulk terminals so far. Users achieve 14% CO2 emission savings through just-in-time arrivals, 90% less manual communication, and 180 min savings on planning—per port call.

www.heyport.io

About HHLA Next

HHLA Next is the innovation and investment unit of Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), focused on transforming maritime logistics through innovation. At HHLA Next, ideas are turned into successful products and business models, either in the form of in-house developments (BUILD), in cooperation with partners (PARTNER) or through investments in innovative companies (INVEST).

www.hhla-next.de

About HPC

HPC Hamburg Port Consulting is a global leader in logistics consulting, driving innovation across ports, terminals, and hinterland logistics. Founded in 1976, the Hamburg-based firm has completed over 1,800 projects in 135 countries, guiding clients through every stage of the port project cycle.HPC focuses on automation, AI-driven operations, and digitalization, offering solutions like Port Community Systems and Maritime Single Windows. Alongside these core areas, HPC provides a broad portfolio of consulting services that support sound investment decisions, efficient operations, and seamless facility optimization.  With a team of approximately 100 experts—including terminal operators, data scientists, and logistics specialists—HPC combines deep industry knowledge with advanced technology to help clients optimize operations, unlock efficiencies, and achieve sustainable growth. HPC’s roots and expertise span container, breakbulk, and multipurpose handling, as well as hinterland operations.

www.hamburgportconsulting.com

Filed Under: HPC Hamburg Port Consulting

“K” Line : LNG bunkering vessel “Kaguya” achieves 100th ship-to-ship LNG bunker supply

November 21, 2024 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), along with JERA Co., Inc. (JERA), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), and other partners, collaboratively operates an LNG bunkering business for LNG-fueled vessels in the Chubu region through joint venture companies*1.

On November 5, 2024, approximately four years after the launch of business operation in October 2020, the LNG bunkering vessel “Kaguya”*2 owned by the joint venture achieved its 100th ship-to-ship *3 LNG bunkering operation *4 in Mikawa Bay.

The joint venture is striving to expand its bunkering service to meet increasing demand of LNG as marine fuel in the Chubu region, arising from ever-growing global fleet of LNG-fueled vessels including “K”LINE’s “CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN”*5, an LNG-fueled car carrier. By promoting the use of LNG as marine fuel through this project, “K” LINE contribute to reducing environmental load to the society.

In “K” LINE Environmental Vision 2050 -Blue Seas for the Future-*6, “K” LINE has set the 2030 interim target of improving CO2 emissions efficiency by 50% compared with 2008, surpassing the IMO target of a 40% improvement. Furthermore, “K” LINE sets its new target for 2050 as “The Challenge of Achieving Net-Zero GHG Emissions.” As an action plan, “K” LINE will continue to support the low-/decarbonization  of ourselves and society.

(*1)       Central LNG Shipping Japan Corporation and Central LNG Marine Fuel Japan Corporation
https://central-lng.com/en/

(*2)       Kaguya
This is the first LNG bunkering vessel operating in Japan, having commenced operation in October 2020. The name of the vessel is inspired from the “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter,” considered the oldest story in Japan. It also reflect the aspiration for the LNG bunkering market to grow as tall and endure like bamboo.

(*3)       Ship-to-Ship Bunkering
A method of supplying LNG fuel in which an LNG bunkering vessel comes alongside an LNG-fueled vessel to supply LNG while it is moored at a quay or pier or anchored at designated location.

(*4)       Characteristics of LNG as marine fuel
Compared to heavy fuel oil, it is expected to cut sulfur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions by about 100%, nitrogen oxides (NOx) by up to 80%, and carbon dioxide (CO2) by about 30%. It is held to be a promising marine fuel that can replace heavy fuel oil in response to tightened international ship emission regulations.

(*5)       CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN
A next-generation eco-friendly car carrier delivered on March 12, 2021. It continues to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by using LNG as fuel.
https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/car/car-20210312.html

(*6)       “K” LINE Environmental Vision 2050: Blue Seas for the Future
The revision in November 2021 sets CO2 reduction milestones for 2030, in excess of the IMO target, and includes “introduction of LNG-fueled vessels” and “commercialization of LNG bunkering” in the action plan.
https://www.kline.co.jp/en/sustainability/environment/management.htm

[Related Press Release]

September 18, 2020: Naming Ceremony Held for Japan’s First LNG Bunkering Vessel

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/Liquefied_gas/Liquefied_gas-20200918.html

March 16, 2021:Ship-to-ship Bunkering to the LNG-fueled Vessel CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN

https://www.kline.co.jp/ja/news/Liquefied_gas/Liquefied_gas-20210316.html

Filed Under: "K" Line

“K” LINE held FY2024 Dry Bulk Global Meeting

November 21, 2024 by

November 15, 2024

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) held a global meeting for the dry bulk business at the company’s head office over a two-day period from November 7 to 8. The meeting gathered not only the members of the dry bulk team at the head office but also 26 national staff and representatives from 11 major overseas offices, with about 100 people engaging in lively discussions in either operation or sales sessions.

At the meeting, Masatoshi Taguchi, Managing Executive Officer (responsible for the Dry Bulk Carriers Unit) explained the role of the dry bulk business in “K” LINE’s portfolio, how to manage reasonable exposure to market risks, and the importance of initiatives to motivate customers to keep choosing “K” Line, including the polishing of “earning power” through vessel assignment optimization, after which everyone affirmed that they will work in unison to continue making efforts to further grow the dry bulk business and increase corporate value.

This year’s theme was “Evaluation of activities since last year’s meeting and future action plans!”

The KPIs identified in the previous fiscal year, such as safety/efficiency in navigation, profitability,  low-carbon/decarbonization efforts for CO2 emissions reduction, were analyzed and reflected on during the operation sessions, with frank discussions taking place about increasing safety and profitability in navigation and cargo operations as well as environment and DX challenges.

At the sales sessions, the participants analyzed and planned initiatives for achieving sales targets this year and expanding the revenue base in the future as well as were updated on challenges and progress related to the environment, both at “K” LINE

and with customers. Moreover, they checked the business structure for maintaining high-quality services and otherwise debated ways to enhance “K” LINE’s strengths through the concerted efforts of the Tokyo head office and overseas locations.

Going forward, “K” LINE will regularly hold global meetings and share KPIs globally, thereby improving customer-oriented service quality while also creating a sense of unity among our employees and strengthening teamwork. Our dry bulk business will realize sustainable profitability growth while at the same time growing and expanding the business together with customers, further developing its business network on a foundation of global diversity and adding environmental reaction to the advanced transportation knowhow accumulated over many years.

Filed Under: "K" Line
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