Total export orders reached approximately 620,000 gross tons (GT) for the month, marking a 32% decrease compared to around 920,000 GT in April 2024.
Despite the drop in monthly exports, Japanese shipbuilders held a healthy orderbook of 29.5 million GT as of the end of April 2025.
Industry analysts attribute the decline in new export orders to fully booked delivery slots at Japanese shipyards, which have limited their ability to take on new contracts.
However, the outlook remains positive for Japan’s shipbuilding sector, particularly in the area of high-value-added and environmentally friendly vessels. Demand for eco-friendly ships is rising globally, driven by stricter environmental regulations and increasing trade volumes from emerging markets.
One notable example is Japan Marine United (JMU), which reported a 5.4-fold increase in net profit for fiscal year 2024, reaching JPY 19.9 billion (US$140 million) — a record high. JMU also secured new orders worth JPY 720.2 billion (US$5.03 billion) during the same period.
Meanwhile, Japanese marine engine maker Mitsui E&S reported a 1.4 times year-on-year increase in propulsion system orders, totaling JPY 212.9 billion (US$1.49 billion).
In parallel, the Japanese government is looking to leverage the country's advanced shipbuilding technology in international negotiations.
Officials have indicated plans to offer technical cooperation and ship repair capabilities, using the sector as a strategic asset in trade talks, particularly with the United States.
