ORIX Consortium Launches Sakura Ocean JV
2, February 2026
ORIX-backed Sakura Ocean forms a Japan-based shipowning platform and plans three domestic newbuilds—one each at Imabari, Tsuneishi, and Onomichi—for delivery by 2030.
Japan shipbuilding
Japan sets course to rebuild shipbuilding by 2035
5, January 2026
Japan is committing ¥350 billion over 10 years to revitalise shipbuilding, aiming for 18m GT capacity and a 20% global share by 2035 through state funding, coordinated industry support and US cooperation.
Antitrust Green Light: Imabari Shipbuilding Moves to Control JMU
25, December 2025
Imabari Shipbuilding cleared antitrust review to buy an additional 30% of JMU from JFE Holdings and IHI, lifting its stake to 60% with closing set for 5 January 2026.
Shimanami Shipyard to Build 10 Bulk Carriers
4, December 2025
Shimanami Shipyard, a subsidiary of Imabari Shipbuilding, will build 10 speculative bulk carriers. Additionally, the company has secured orders for 10 more ships, including Aframax tankers.
Japan’s $6.5B Innovation Drive to Consolidate Shipbuilding Leadership
6, November 2025
Japan and its major shipbuilders plan to invest $6.5 billion by 2035 to modernize shipyards and accelerate eco-friendly, autonomous, and digital shipbuilding technologies.
Japan Targets Doubling Shipbuilding Output Amid Industry Revival Push
3, October 2025
Japan has unveiled plans to double shipbuilding output after decades of decline, with a focus on digital design, automation, and green vessels.
