Japan considers upping state intervention
In Japan, the central government is considering taking equity stakes in the local government run companies that operate container ports in Tokyo and Osaka to tackle the threat of South Korean competition.
According to local media, Japan’s transport ministry is thinking of revising the Ports and Harbors Law to allow an increase in state involvement in two operators, Keihin Ports and Hanshin Ports.
Keihin Ports covers Tokyo, Yokohama (pictured) and Kawasaki in Tokyo Bay, while Hanshin Ports covers Osaka and Kobe.
The move has been prompted by a loss of traffic in Japan, which is said to be a result of subsidies offered to freight forwarders in Busan.
The subsidies allow shipping lines to offer reduced rates, which is encouraging Japanese customers to switch to South Korean sailings.
Related Articles
CONTAINER & CARGO HANDLING
TERMINAL OPERATIONS
EQUIPMENT