Japan Refrigerated Transport Market Expected to Reach USD 2,427 Million by 2033 - IMARC Group

Japan Refrigerated Transport Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The Japan refrigerated transport market size was valued at USD 1,193 Million in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 2,427 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2025 to 2033.

Efforts to improve refrigerated ocean transport systems reflect a focus on creating better standards for preserving freshness. These advancements in Japan ensure the efficient delivery of temperature-sensitive goods over long distances while adapting to the evolving needs of trade and maintaining product quality during transit. For example, in February 2024, Sumitomo Corporation signed an agreement with Orient Overseas Container Line Limited to enhance the refrigerated ocean transport system. They aim to establish a new standard for freshness-preserving logistics by developing refrigerated ocean transportation based on this service. 

Moreover, the development of new refrigerated cold storage facilities is meeting the increasing need for greater capacity in the cold chain industry. These facilities help preserve temperature-sensitive goods efficiently, supporting the evolving demands of businesses and ensuring product quality. For instance, in April 2023, GLP Pte Ltd. started building refrigerated cold storage facilities in Japan, covering a total of 55,000 square meters. The projects, GLP Kobe Sumiyoshihama and GLP Rokko V aim to meet the rising demand in the cold chain industry by expanding the storage capacity for temperature-sensitive products. Furthermore, Japan's refrigerated transportation sector is quickly expanding, with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Vendors are using cutting-edge technology, such as electric-powered refrigeration units, to minimize emissions and comply with stringent environmental standards. These achievements are consistent with Japan's greater ambition to be carbon neutral by 2050. Additionally, the demand for improved aftermarket solutions presents considerable potential for manufacturers to address the growing demands of temperature-sensitive sectors. For example, major companies like Yamato Transport and Nichirei Logistics Group are investing in energy-efficient, environmentally friendly refrigerated vehicles to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. Similarly, technological companies like Thermo King Japan and Carrier Transicold are introducing new products, such as hybrid and electric refrigeration systems. These innovations respond to the demand for cleaner, more cost-effective, and dependable refrigerated transportation options, improving logistics efficiency throughout Japan.

Japan Refrigerated Transport Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include the Kanto region, Kansai/Kinki region, Central/Chubu region, Kyushu-Okinawa region, Tohoku region, Chugoku region, Hokkaido region, and Shikoku region. These regions have food safety standards, which is creating a positive impact on the market.

Kanto Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

The advent of e-commerce businesses has created an increasing demand for dependable refrigerated logistics in the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo and Yokohama. Companies like Yamato Transport and Sagawa Express use refrigerated trucks to deliver fresh food rapidly. Moreover, Hino Motors is launching electric refrigerated trucks to meet both efficiency and environmental issues as the region's companies and customers prioritize sustainability.

Kansai/Kinki Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

In the Kansai/Kinki region, which encompasses Osaka and Kyoto, refrigerated delivery is critical to the F&B sector, especially for seafood and local specialties. JR Freight is extending its refrigerated train services to convey frozen commodities to ports for export effectively. This method provides cost-effective logistics while maintaining the quality of food goods in transit to local and international markets.

Central/Chubu Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

The central/Chubu region, home to Nagoya, relies heavily on refrigerated transport for exporting industrial components and temperature-sensitive products. Companies like Suzuyo Group and Meitetsu Transport are key players, providing specialized cold chain logistics. Using systems from Thermo King Japan, these businesses can transport perishable foods and industrial goods efficiently, showcasing the region's diverse economic focus and commitment to quality.

Kyushu-Okinawa Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

The Kyushu-Okinawa region, famed for its abundant agricultural and seafood output, prioritizes refrigerated marine transport to connect its isolated islands to mainland markets. Exporters such as Nichirei Logistics Group employ innovative cryogenic systems to maintain the freshness of high-value seafood, including tuna, during international shipping. This focus on maintaining top-quality exports reflects the region’s dedication to supporting its producers.

Tohoku Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

Tohoku, a significant agricultural region, relies on refrigerated transportation to supply fresh goods such as apples and rice to cities like Sendai. Companies, including Maruto Group and Fujitrans Corporation, have implemented cooperative logistics methods, allowing local farmers to pool resources and maximize refrigerated truck utilization. This approach ensures that fresh goods arrive efficiently while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

Chugoku Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

In the Chugoku region, centered around Hiroshima, refrigerated shipping benefits the seafood company, especially oysters bound for local and foreign markets. Hankyu Hanshin Logistics and Ryobi Logistics employ air-blown evaporators for accurate temperature control.  Collaborations with seafood distributors ensure that products are delivered fresh and on time, meeting high consumer demand while maintaining product integrity.

Hokkaido Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

Hokkaido, known for its dairy and seafood sectors, relies on cryogenic systems to transport frozen products such as salmon and scallops. Companies like Sohgo Security Services (ALSOK) and Nichirei Logistics Group invest in cutting-edge refrigeration technologies to ensure product quality during long-distance shipments. Additionally, insulated containers developed by Panasonic Corporation are vital for withstanding the region's extreme weather conditions.

Shikoku Region Refrigerated Transport Market Trends:

Shikoku, recognized for its citrus fruits and poultry, uses eutectic devices for short distance refrigerated transportation. Companies, such as Seino Transportation and Hokuetsu Logistics, established cooperative logistics systems to help small farmers and producers access larger markets. These efforts not only preserve product quality but also support the local economy while promoting environmentally friendly transport practices.

Top Companies Leading in the Japan Refrigerated Transport Industry

Some of the leading Japan refrigerated transport market companies have been provided in the report. Extensive profiles of all the leading industry players, their top winning strategies, company evaluation quadrants, competitive dashboards, etc., have also been provided in this report. Moreover, companies are using diverse strategic initiatives, i.e., product launches, partnerships, and acquisitions, to hold a significant share of the market.

Japan Refrigerated Transport Market Segmentation Coverage

• Based on the mode of transportation, the market has been classified into refrigerated road transport, refrigerated sea transport, refrigerated rail transport, and refrigerated air transport. For shorter distances, refrigerated road transport is both flexible and cost-effective. Refrigerated sea transport is beneficial for exporting huge amounts over long distances. Refrigerated rail transport carries massive commodities inland. Refrigerated air transport allows for swift transportation of high-value or perishable items, ensuring they arrive safely and on time.
• Based on the technology, the market has been categorized into vapor compression systems, air-blown evaporators, eutectic devices, and cryogenic systems. Vapor compression systems are commonly utilized for accurate temperature management of many sorts of commodities. Air-blown evaporators provide steady chilling, which is suitable for fragile goods. Eutectic devices provide a cost-effective alternative for short-distance transportation, but cryogenic systems attain ultra-low temperatures for specialty commodities such as medications and frozen foods.
• Based on the temperature, the market has been divided into single-temperature and multi-temperature. Single-temperature systems maintain a consistent climate for specific goods, such as frozen or chilled items. Multi-temperature systems are versatile, enabling the simultaneous transport of products requiring different temperature settings, enhancing efficiency.
• Based on the application, the market is classified into chilled food products (dairy products, bakery and confectionery products, fresh fruits and vegetables, and others), frozen food products (frozen dairy products, processed meat products, fish and seafood products, and others), and others. Chilled food products, like dairy, fresh produce, and beverages, require moderate cooling. Frozen food products, such as seafood and meats, demand ultra-low temperatures for long-term preservation.

Browse IMARC Related Reports on Refrigerated Transport Market:

• Refrigerated Transport Market Report
   
• Asia Pacific Refrigerated Transport Market Report
   
• Europe Refrigerated Transport Market Report
   
• GCC Refrigerated Transport Market Report
   
• United States Refrigerated Transport Market Report