Japan is still the world’s third-largest shipbuilding nation, trailing only China and South Korea, despite the closure of several of its most renowned shipyards.
A strong US dollar and an increase in bulk carrier orders have helped Japan grow a national orderbook of 30m gt, with deliveries extending well into 2028, according to the Japan Ship Exporters’ Association.
Sumitomo Heavy Industries is the latest shipbuilding company to quit the commercial shipbuilding industry, joining Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Heavy Industries, Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding and Sasebo Heavy Industries.
