2 days ago
Japanese shipping firms mull responses to attack on Iran
Japanese shipping companies are mapping out possible responses to Israel's attacks on Iran on Friday. The companies may need to adjust to any escalation of military action in the Middle East, which Japan relies on for over 90 percent of its crude oil imports.
Tokyo-based NYK Line operates about 20 oil tankers and automobile carriers in the region. It says its vessels travel through the Persian Gulf dozens of times a month.
The company says it is gathering information to ensure the safety of operations in the Gulf. Depending on conditions, the company may need to consider suspending operations or changing routes.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, also known as "K" Line, will alert ships traveling through waters around the Gulf. They will also consider how to ensure the safety of crews and cargoes.
Japan's transport ministry says vessels operated by major Japanese shipping companies navigated through the Gulf about 3,500 times in 2024.
Energy-related carriers accounted for more than 40 percent of all the trips.
Oil tankers traveled most often, 890 times, followed by automobile carriers' 738 times and LNG carriers' 421 times. Energy-related carriers accounted for more than 40 percent of all the trips.
The ministry says it will provide shipping companies with the latest information on the ground and urge them to take safety measures.
