Singapore: Switzerland-based logistics firm Panalpina has launched three new direct less than container load (LCL) services from Japan to Singapore.

The new guaranteed weekly services from Kobe, Nagoya and Tokyo are operated by Panalpina's in-house carrier Pantainer Express Line.

"With our improved, own operated service offering via Singapore, we can now offer our customers in Japan a seamless connection to our global LCL network. Access to end-to-end solutions and the global market, especially the main markets in Europe, the east coast of Latin America, Asia and Africa is greatly simplified," said Frank Hercksen, global head of ocean freight at Panalpina.

The additional LCL services are part of Panalpina's long term strategy to grow business on key Asia trade lanes, especially on the Far East Westbound, the company said.