MOL Expands Logistics Footprint in Singapore
On December 16, 2025, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), led by President and CEO Takeshi Hashimoto, announced its strategic investment in Commonwealth Kokubu Logistics Pte. Ltd. (CKL), Singapore’s largest food cold chain logistics provider. This partnership comes as MOL seeks to enhance its logistics capabilities in Southeast Asia, a region poised for significant economic growth and increased demand for cold chain services, driven by population expansion.
Strategic Investment to Boost Regional Presence
MOL’s investment in CKL aligns with its “BLUE ACTION 2035” management plan, which aims to bolster the company’s position in global markets while driving business growth. By joining forces with CKL, which operates one of Asia’s largest logistics warehouses, located at 8 Jalan Besut, MOL aims to tap into the burgeoning demand for efficient logistics services in Southeast Asia.
CKL operates two integrated multi-temperature warehouses in Singapore, providing essential storage and distribution services for foodservice and retail operators. The company has integrated advanced IT systems to achieve energy-efficient warehousing, operating around the clock to ensure high-quality logistics services, including last-mile distribution. The strategic partnership is expected to create opportunities for CKL to expand its operations into additional Southeast Asian markets, leveraging the strong foundation established in Singapore’s cold chain logistics sector.
MOL Expands Logistics Infrastructure in Southeast Asia with New Advanced Warehouses
A signing ceremony to formalize the partnership took place on December 9, 2025, at KKB’s headquarters in Tokyo, marking a significant step in MOL’s logistics transformation strategy.
Strengthening Logistics Amid Market Challenges
MOL is committed to transforming its business portfolio to ensure profitability, even during downturns in the shipping market. By engaging in logistics operations in Singapore, MOL aims to create a stable source of earnings through enhanced logistics services, particularly in the cold chain sector.
The partnership structure indicates that Commonwealth Capital Pte. Ltd. will hold a 51% stake in CKL, with Kokubu Group Corporation owning 34% and MOL maintaining a 15% share. CKL provides comprehensive logistics services, including customs documentation, clearance, warehousing, and inventory management for both halal and non-halal food sectors.
The 8 Jalan Besut facility exemplifies cutting-edge logistics infrastructure, featuring a height of over 100 meters and spanning more than 500,000 square feet. The warehouse can accommodate up to 90,000 pallets and includes a 45-meter-high automated storage and retrieval system, earning it the title of the “Tallest Industrial Automated Refrigerator in Asia.”
This investment not only signifies MOL’s commitment to enhancing its logistics capabilities but also underscores its focus on sustainable growth and innovation in the logistics sector.
