Japan still third-largest ship-owning country – Bimco
Japan remains the world’s third-largest ship-owning nation, controlling 12% of global dwt capacity and home to 604 shipowners.
While Tokyo dominates nationally with 48% of Japanese tonnage and hosts giants like MOL, NYK and K Line, it is Imabari that surprises as a global heavyweight. The small Ehime prefecture city, with just 152,000 residents, is home to 112 shipowners and a third of Japan’s fleet – making it the sixth-largest shipping city worldwide, just behind Singapore.
Imabari-based firms include Nissen Kaiun, Shoei and Mizuho Sangyo, key players in the bulk and container sectors. Despite Japan’s reduced share in global trade, its shipowners – especially in gas shipping – remain vital, and may benefit from rising protectionist trends such as new US tariffs on Chinese ships. (ah)