Port Productivity and Working Conditions: Three New Projects Selected
Overview
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism solicited technology development projects to deepen the “AI Terminal Supporting People” initiative and strengthen the competitiveness of international container strategic ports. Following expert review and other steps, it selected three new projects. Applications were accepted from July 15 through August 19, 2026. The selected projects concern sharing real-time terminal activity data, standardizing shipping-line booking data, and developing equipment to assist with onboard lashing work.
Key points
- The ministry solicited technology development projects to deepen the “AI Terminal Supporting People” initiative.
- Following expert review and other steps, it selected three new technology development projects.
- The selected projects cover sharing real-time activity data, standardizing booking information, and reducing the workload of onboard lashing work.
Overview
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is advancing technology development to deepen the “AI Terminal Supporting People” initiative and improve productivity and working conditions at container terminals, with the aim of strengthening the competitiveness of international container strategic ports.
Details
The Port Technology Development Program solicits proposals from private companies and others for technology development that contributes to improving productivity and working conditions at container terminals in Japan, then advances selected projects intensively as government-commissioned research and development. The fourth call ran from July 15 through August 19, 2026, and three projects were newly selected following review and other steps.
The newly selected projects involve technology development for sharing real-time activity data among different vehicle types and cargo-handling equipment within terminals; improving terminal work efficiency by standardizing shipping-line booking data; and reducing the workload of onboard lashing through assistive equipment. The ministry directs readers to its website for details about the program, application guidelines, and related materials.