Japanese shipping giant K-Line to divert US services over Trump tariff fears, CEO says
'There have been times when ships couldn't be fully loaded on some routes, and when we reduced the frequency of container services from East Asia to the US,' Igarashi said.
'We're adjusting our fleet capacity according to cargo volumes.'
One of Japan's major shipping companies, Kawasaki Kisen, has factored in a 30 billion yen (US$200 million) impact from US tariffs for the financial year through March 2026, citing a hit to the carrier business and lower container volumes and freight rates.
Igarashi, who took over his post in March, said that the container ship business would be especially affected by the outcome of US-China tariff negotiations, which the company was closely watching.
K Line President and CEO Takenori Igarashi said his company will adjust US services amid tariff fears, eyeing diversions to Europe and Africa. Photo: Reuters
US President Donald Trump has threatened higher tariffs on a range of trading partners unless they agree trade deals before an August 1 deadline.
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