The international situation can have a significant impact on the shipping industry.
It is constantly and rapidly evolving in ways that often exceed our expectations. The shipping market and exchange rates are sensitive to changes, while trading patterns also change.

Events like the invasion of Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza are not taking place in some other world. They have brought home to us again that geopolitical risks exist everywhere.
The risk of pandemics like COVID will remain a concern.
We have to address numerous issues right now, such as environmental concerns, the direction of energy policies and the tariff questions emerging out of the United States.

Take a look at Japan. The rapid decrease in population and labor shortage pose serious problems.
Amid the considerable spread of workstyle reform, it is time for us to consider the future of our operations and organization, including the recruitment and education of human resources, as well as Digital Transformation (DX).

Given the circumstances, what we can do is to go back to the basics.
That means sincerely listening to the expectations of all stakeholders and continually seeking to accurately identify the needs of society.
We need the strong determination to successfully overcome a turbulent international situation and move into the future, with flexible ideas and mindsets. Instead of fearing changes in the business environment, consider them as new business opportunities.

We will remain determined to contribute to the world as a shipping company that does everything it can at the time and never betray its trust.
As part of the Japanese maritime industry, we hope we will be able to help develop the industry to the fullest extent possible.

Masaharu Kurosawa

President