K Line to start operations at Japan’s Kobe terminal

Operations will increase capacity for large containerships.

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd. (“K” LINE) will begin operations at the Kobe International Container Terminal (KICT) on 1 September.

The company will operate container terminals PC14-17 at the southern pier of the Port Island (Stage 2) area.

“K” LINE signed a basic agreement with Kobe-Osaka International Port Corporation and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. in June 2023 to relocate to KICT and integrate terminal facilities following the expansion and functional upgrades at the Port of Kobe.

The relocation is expected to make KICT one of Japan’s largest container terminals, handling nearly 40% of foreign trade containers at the Port of Kobe.

The expanded operations will increase KICT’s capacity to handle large containerships, provide greater flexibility in berth operations and improve convenience for transshipment cargo.

Together with group company Nitto Total Logistics Ltd., which is responsible for facility operations, “K” LINE will provide shipping companies and customers with container terminal services.

The company said it will also respond to customer needs related to digital transformation and environmental initiatives as part of its Environmental Vision 2050.