DP World has strengthened supply chain efficiency between Japan and the Philippines by supporting a new direct maritime link.
This route is primarily being utilized by Ichijo Komuten Co., Ltd., a major Japanese homebuilder, to optimize its export and import logistics.
Operated by CMA CGM, the new weekly JP8 service connects Sendai directly with key Philippine gateways, specifically calling at Manila South Harbour and the Batangas Integrated Port.
Launched on March 18, this route marks the first regular international shipping connection established between Sendai and the Philippines in eight years.
Both destination ports are operated by Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI), DP World’s local partner, serving as critical entry and exit points for regional cargo flows.
The addition of the JP8 loop is designed to improve throughput reliability and reduce overall transit times for prefabricated housing materials moving to export markets. This service directly supports Ichijo’s manufacturing operations in the Philippines, where components are produced by House Research Development (HRD) and managed through the group’s logistics and procurement arm, Nihon Sangyo.
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To streamline cargo flows from the production floor to final distribution, DP World is combining this direct maritime service with extensive landside logistics. The terminal operations in Manila and Batangas are fully integrated with inland transport solutions designed to ease port congestion and increase supply chain visibility.
Additionally, DP World is facilitating domestic cargo movements to regional outports in Japan, extending these efficiency gains across both the origin and destination networks. Glen Hilton, CEO and Managing Director for Asia Pacific at DP World, noted that this collaboration leverages both their global network and local terminals to ensure a seamless flow of materials tailored to their customers’ exact delivery timelines.