NYK has optimised scheduling and bunkering using AI and data analytics (source: NYK)
16 Feb 2026by Martyn Wingrove
A major Japanese shipping group has implemented its digital transformation strategy across its shipping and logistics divisions
Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has invested in its digital transformation (DX) since 2021, digitalising shipboard operations and logistics, using artificial intelligence (AI) and IT networks.
DX became part of the Japanese shipping group’s medium-term management plan, and its implementation has strengthened its operations.
In shipping, it has deployed sensors and internet-of-things (IoT) on vessels and developed data-sharing systems for further AI-driven analytics. NYK has achieved stable vessel operations and fuel savings by using IoT to detect anomalies in onboard machinery and ship sailings.
In logistics, DX has enabled NYK to automate its warehouses, improve supply chain visualisation and streamline forwarding operations.
“DX is a catalyst for change, driving the sustainable enhancement of corporate value and inspiring us to meet future challenges head-on,” said NYK, explaining its investment. “At the same time, it serves as a critical instrument in fulfilling our environmental and social responsibilities.”
DW is helping NYK to evolve its business into other areas, such as autonomous vessels, electronic payment and currency services, and advancing ship-simulation technology.
NYK’s implementation of digitalisation, IT networks and generative AI has accelerated data-driven management decisions and refined previous decisions. This is backed by strengthened cyber security on land and sea, an established, robust data infrastructure and an investment in human resources, including deploying more than 1,000 DX engineers worldwide and establishing DX leaders in each department.
NYK has implemented a DX resources development programme for all employees, including non-IT departments, and has optimised operating schedules for its vessels.
“Moving forward, the group will actively harness generative AI and other data-driven technologies to achieve a management approach that is both efficient and environmentally sustainable,” said NYK in a presentation.
NYK Group will establish DX and IT bases in the US, Europe and Asia to provide IT services tailored to the circumstances of each region, “while using networking technology and human resources through a common governance and communication platform to promote DX in collaboration across the globe,” the shipowner said.
“We are actively implementing initiatives, such as appointing DX leaders within each business department, to nurture professionals who can proactively drive DX in the field.”
NYK’s investment for future DX and technology advances was accelerated in early February when it made an equity investment in Kamakura, Japan-headquartered Oceanic Constellations, to support the production of unmanned surface vessels and marine simulators.
DX will also include autonomous navigation, remote monitoring and command centres, zero-emissions ships and explore crewless vessels and floating green data centres offshore.
Connect with industry leaders across the Asian and Middle Eastern maritime sectors through Riviera’s premium events. Located conveniently in Singapore, we provide unparalleled access to the heart of the Asian maritime market.
link