“K” Line and Yang Ming to launch new loop in Asia - Mediterranean trade (AMS2)

January 26, 2006 -Tokyo, Japan. Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” Line) and Yang Ming Marine Transport Co rp ., (YML) are pleased to announce the launch of a new loop in Asia-Mediterranean sector (AMS2).

This new joint express service is expected to commence the end of February 2006.

“K” Line and YML will jointly deploy seven vessels of 3500TEU class, five vessels will be operated by “K” Line, two vessels by YML.

The intended port rotation is as follows:

Shanghai – Ningbo – Xiamen – Kaohsiung – Yantian – Singapore – J e ddah – Port Said –

Genova – Fos – Valencia – Port Said – Singapore – Hong Kong – Shanghai

CKYH consortium members will totally provide customers with 6 loops for Mediterranean destinations by this new launching of AMS2 service.

Recognizing the tremendous potential of the trade growth from Asia to Mediterranean area, the Partners will provide customers with more reliable service with high quality and competency in order to more successfully meet customers' satisfaction.

For further information, please contact:

Takafumi Kido,
Manager, Planning Team
Containerships Business Group
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. Tokyo
Tel : 81-3-3595-5309
Fax : 81-3-3595-5288