AAL, one of the world’s leading global breakbulk and heavy lift operators, today announced the launch of a new operation in Japan – the world’s 3rd largest economy.  The strategic move is based on providing excellence in services and on-ground operational support directly to customers in the country, building on AAL’s significant presence in Asia and driving its continued international development as an award-winning and truly global carrier. Based in Tokyo, AAL Japan will focus on providing quality services to key industries, particularly the EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) sectors, where Japan has a strong reputation for the export of high-end quality products.  AAL Japan will provide a wide range of transportation and logistics services, drawing upon its extensive experience in the global heavy lift and project cargo markets.  These include transportation solutions on sea, land and air, related agency services, financing and temporary staffing and logistics consultancy. “Japan saw a steady resurgence in its export market towards the end of 2014 – supported by demand from the US and China – an encouraging sign, considering the volatile global market.   To maintain their competitive edge, our local shipping customers aim to maximise their operational efficiencies, as well as health and safety and sustainability standards.  At AAL, we have built a trusted reputation for providing flexible transportation solutions that meet these demands,” said Wolfgang Harms, Managing Director, AAL Japan. “This development reflects the significance of Japan as a key market for AAL and, with more than half of the country’s shipments going into Asia, we have the experience and the resources to meet market expectations and build our reputation and operations in the region even further.”  AAL Japan will be headed by Mr. Wolfgang Harms as Managing Director, in conjunction with his current roles as Chief Representative for Greater China and Deputy Managing Director of AAL.  He will be supported by Mrs. Yuko Kimura as Managing Director, Mr. Takashi Shimizu as General Manager and Mr. Yushi Sato - all directors within the new organisation.   “Our global growth strategy is geared towards delivering for our customers - wherever they are and wherever they need us to be,” commented Kyriacos Panayides, Managing Director of AAL. “We will continue to invest in the expansion of our operations and the development of our fleet and trading routes to all continents, to create a truly global reach for our customers.  Launching AAL Japan is a good example of this.”