K Line orders a 300,000DWT bulker

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) has undertaken to construct a 300,000 dwt super large ore carrier for JFE Steel Corporation (JFE). The construction of the 330 metre long, 55 metre wide vessel is to be carried out by Universal Shipbuilding Corporation and delivery is scheduled for 2008.

The newbuilding is in accordance with a long-term voyage charter contract between JFE and K Line. When the newbuilding enters into service, it will engage in iron ore transport for JFE as the very first super large ore carrier dedicated in the trade from Brazil to Villanueva in the Philippines. As one of the largest bulk carrier ever deployed for JFE, the new ship will be of an optimal ship type that reflects the special handling capability as a result of Villanueva?s deep-draft berth. It will also be the largest of all the bulk carriers/iron ore carriers that K Line has ever constructed and is a significant development in the company?s strategy.

As the global production of crude iron and steel still continues to be on the increase, it is anticipated that larger quantities of raw materials for iron and steel will also continue to grow in the foreseeable future. To strengthen their overall transport capability, K Line has been pro-active in upgrading its fleet.