#Japan #Hitachi #Kobe #Mitsui E&S #Kobe Port

Advancing Port Efficiency with AI

In a groundbreaking initiative, Mitsui E&S Holdings Co., Mitsui Warehouse, and Hitachi have begun a real-world pilot project utilizing AI for container management at Kobe Port. This project, part of a technological development program implemented by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, aims to enhance container terminal operations through digital innovation. Launching in November 2025, this pilot will run until February 2026 at the Rokko RC2 Container Terminal operated by Mitsui Warehouse in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture.

AI technology has emerged as a significant asset for the logistics sector, particularly in managing complex operations such as those at container terminals. The increasing cargo volumes and dynamic nature of container information have made traditional planning methods less effective. Historically reliant on experienced planners, terminal operations now face the challenge of adapting to rapid changes in shipping and logistics demands.

To tackle these challenges, the three companies will leverage their unique expertise: Mitsui Warehouse’s operational knowledge, Hitachi's AI-based predictions for cargo handling, and Mitsui E&S's simulator for assessing logistics operations. These collaborations aim to optimize container placement, improve loading and unloading procedures, and ultimately enhance the overall efficiency of port operations.

Through the pilot, the AI-driven strategies will be tested and validated with real cargo data, using simulations to predict outbound dates, devise deployment methods, and create efficient handling plans. This integration of advanced technologies is designed not just to improve efficiency but also to contribute to more sustainable and resilient port logistics.

The pilot represents a significant shift towards a more data-driven approach in port management. By harnessing Japan's growing capabilities in AI and digital tools, the project aligns with global trends aimed at enhancing productivity in logistics while addressing environmental concerns and societal challenges. Through effective collaboration and innovation, Mitsui E&S, Mitsui Warehouse, and Hitachi are not only setting a precedent in the industry but also underlining the vital role of technology in sustainable development within the maritime sector.

This initiative underscores the commitment of the involved parties to not only modernize port operations but also to cultivate a logistics framework that supports economic growth while maintaining environmental responsibility. As the project unfolds, industry stakeholders and the public will be keenly watching for outcomes that may redefine container terminal operations across Japan and beyond.

Stay tuned for updates on this innovative project, as it promises to pave the way towards future advancements in port logistics and operational methodologies. With the potential to reshape how we approach cargo handling, this could very well be a turning point in the maritime industry.

For more information, visit:

• - Mitsui E&S Holdings: https://www.mitsui.com/
• - Hitachi: https://www.hitachi.com/
• - Mitsui Warehouse: https://www.mitsui-soko.co.jp/en/