Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), a leading global maritime transport and logistics company headquartered in Tokyo, has signed a long-term loan agreement to secure financing for its acquisition of LBC Tank Terminals Group Holding Netherlands Coöperatief U.A. (LBC), a key player in global tank storage operations. The acquisition, completed in June 2025, strengthens MOL’s position in the chemical logistics sector and supports its long-term growth strategy.
MOL advances BLUE ACTION 2035 with Chemical Logistics Investment
Under the financing arrangement, MOL agreed with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and a syndicate of lenders arranged by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) to provide stable and long-term funding for the transaction. The JBIC loan portion amounts to ¥135 billion, while the syndicated loan totals ¥115 billion — collectively underpinning the financial structuring for the acquisition.
LBC operates tank terminals in strategic global locations, including Europe and the United States, offering storage solutions for liquid chemicals, oil, and refined petroleum products. By integrating tank storage operations into its portfolio, MOL aims to enhance its chemical logistics services, complementing its existing maritime transport capabilities. This integration is aligned with the company’s BLUE ACTION 2035 management plan, which seeks to expand stable revenue businesses and meet evolving customer needs by diversifying its service offerings across the logistics value chain.
MOL has identified the chemical logistics business as a strategic growth area, particularly given the comparatively low volatility of tank terminal operations. The acquisition and associated financing are expected to provide MOL with a stronger platform to respond quickly to market demand and capture opportunities in global supply chains.
The collaboration between JBIC, SMBC, and other financial institutions reflects a shared commitment to supporting Japanese companies’ global business expansion while strengthening MOL’s financial strategy and long-term business stability.
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Source: MOL
