Panalpina is to launch its own forwarding operations in Japan in January, bringing to an end its relationship with NYK's forwarding division, Yusan Air & Sea (YAS), in the country.

CEO Monika Ribar said: "An even stronger presence in the Japanese market under the Panalpina brand supports our global strategy with focus on global supply chain management solutions. In addition, we can further strengthen our network."

Since February 2007, YAS has handled ocean and air freight shipments in Japan for Panalpina, while the Swiss forwarder represented YAS in 23 countries across Latin America, Africa and Europe, an arrangement which will continue after Panalpina Japan is launched.