Japanese shift

The Japanese shipping market is seeing a shift with more owners recognising the role of technology in driving efficiency and sustainability, according to Colombia Group. Smaller shipowners, traditionally hesitant to adopt value-added services such as vessel optimisation, digitalisation, catering and crew welfare solutions, are now showing greater interest in these offerings, said Columbia's Demetris Chrysostomou. He explained that this change is being driven by the growing deployment of LNG-powered vessels and interest in alternative fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, alongside government regulations pushing for sustainability. As a result, smaller owners are exploring ways to optimise fleet management and reduce costs through digital solutions.