"K" LINE TO STAY INDEPENDENT

   "K" Line president Isao Shintani said that the shipping company will remain independent, despite a worldwide trend toward mergers and alliances.
    Throughout its 80-year history, "K" Line has "adhered to independent management as the fundamental principle of an oceangoing shipping company," he said.
    To maintain its independence, it is "crucial" for "K" Line to strengthen its competitive edge in the international market, Shintani commented.
"K" Line has set up a loose alliance agreement with China Ocean Shipping Co. and Yangming Marine Transport. However, unlike the other major Japanese shipping groups, "K" line has not been been involved in corporate takeovers. NYK Line recently bought Showa Line, while Mitsui O.S.K. Lines took over Navix Line.