DHL Global Forwarding Japan, the freight specialist arm of DHL Group, has officially opened a new airfreight office at Kitakyushu Airport.

The office will specifically handle the import, export, and domestic transportation of semiconductor shipments. This move comes in response to the growing transportation demands of semiconductor-related companies surrounding the Kyushu area.

"At DHL, our specialists have become adept in semiconductor transportation at key Japanese airports, including Narita, Nagoya, Osaka, Chitose, and Fukuoka. Hence, we are excited to be opening a new office at Kitakyushu Airport as it marks a significant step towards refining and streamlining airfreight services tailored to semiconductors in Japan," said Karsten Michaelis, president/representative director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan.

"Our extensive global network allows us to bring in best practices from outside Japan, raising the bar for transportation and logistics in the region," Michaelis added.

DHL noted that as global competition and geopolitical pressures intensify, Japan is shifting its attention back towards its semiconductor industry, emphasizing growth and localization.

It added that Japan's goal is to triple semiconductor sales from 2020 until 2030 to over US$108 billion. Hence, the establishment of an efficient transportation for sensitive semiconductor is crucial in supporting this revival and ensuring semiconductor innovation in Japan.

"For us, it goes beyond providing our expertise. It is also about helping to amplify the region's manufacturing capability. We are confident about the prospects it holds for both our organizations and Japan’s manufacturing industry," Michaelis said.

DHL Global Forwarding Japan offers robust airfreight solutions, leveraging its vast international network spanning over 220 countries and territories.

DHL Global Forwarding Japan has implemented different air charter services to support sectors such as perishables, life sciences and healthcare, as well as industrial projects among others.

It said that this new officer further strengthens trade connectivity between Japan and global destinations.