Supply Chain
Tosoh-led industry group sets chemical logistics data standards to tackle Japan’s transport crisis
The Chemicals Working Group of the Physical Internet Realization Council, chaired by Professor Yuji Yano of Ryutsu Keizai University, developed the guidelines to address mounting transport capacity shortages linked to Japan’s “2024 Logistics Problem”
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By ICN Bureau | July 09, 2026
A key industry working group led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has formulated new standard guidelines for chemical logistics information.
Thus, marking a major step toward digital integration and greater efficiency across the chemical supply chain.
The Chemicals Working Group of the Physical Internet Realization Council, chaired by Professor Yuji Yano of Ryutsu Keizai University, developed the guidelines to address mounting transport capacity shortages linked to Japan’s “2024 Logistics Problem” and accelerate the adoption of shared logistics across the chemical sector.
The initiative brings together 86 organizations, including major chemical shippers, logistics providers, the Japan Chemical Industry Association, the Japan Petrochemical Industry Association, one university, and government departments from METI, MLIT, and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW).
Tosoh Corporation serves as the secretariat for the working group alongside Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., and Toray Industries, Inc., supporting efforts to create common data standards and improve collaboration throughout the industry.
The newly established guidelines are expected to enhance logistics visibility, streamline information exchange, and help chemical companies overcome growing transportation challenges by enabling more effective joint logistics operations.
