Japanese technology company Fujitsu has become both a partner and investor in a newly developed digital logistics platform, Sustainable Shared Transport. The platform was established by Yamato, the largest parcel delivery service provider in Japan with international operations. While Fujitsu’s blockchain technology plays a supportive role in the initiative, it primarily ensures the security of logistics data across companies, preventing any unauthorized alterations.
Scheduled for launch on February 1, the platform aims to facilitate collaboration among road transport and logistics firms by enabling shared long-distance shipments. By utilizing the platform for booking purposes, shippers and logistic companies can streamline operations and optimize capacity utilization.
Addressing Key Industry Challenges
Three primary factors have contributed to the development of this logistics solution. Japan has been facing a transport capacity shortfall, which is believed to be linked to a labor shortage within the industry. Additionally, increasing concerns about climate change have compelled shipping firms to improve efficiency in their operations. To address these issues, new regulations will take effect on April 1, mandating logistics companies to adopt optimization measures.
The initiative seeks to reduce the number of underutilized trucks traveling across the country. By consolidating shipments and enhancing truckload efficiency, transport companies can reduce both costs and environmental impact while maintaining service reliability.
Standardized System for Seamless Operations
The platform integrates standardized pallet sizes, data structures, and a trunk route system that spans major highways in central Japan, connecting seven key hubs. This framework allows shipments to be transferred between different logistics firms at designated interchange points. Consequently, local transport providers can assume a more prominent role in handling deliveries between hubs. Future plans include the expansion of this system to incorporate rail and air transportation, further broadening its scope.
Japan’s Broader Blockchain Shipping Initiatives
Japan hosts one of the largest blockchain-enabled shipping networks, TradeWaltz, which is supported by leading Japanese conglomerates. The platform has also attracted investment from Japan’s major banking institutions. Last year, financial giants SMBC and Mizuho joined as investors, aligning with MUFG to establish participation from all three of Japan’s largest banks.
With continued advancements in blockchain technology and logistics optimization, Japan is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and efficient transport solutions. The collaboration between Fujitsu, Yamato, and other stakeholders is expected to drive significant improvements in logistics operations and supply chain management, paving the way for a more interconnected and streamlined shipping ecosystem.
