Four Japanese industrial companies launch green hydrogen corridor with New Zealand
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Obayashi Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Chiyoda Corporation form a green hydrogen corridor between Japan and New Zealand, with commercial imports expected in the early 2030s.
| Companies | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Obayashi Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Chiyoda Corporation |
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Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Obayashi Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Chiyoda Corporation have formed the Japan–New Zealand Hydrogen Corridor, an alliance designed to study the production of green hydrogen in New Zealand and its export to Japan. The four companies plan to launch supply chain studies during the 2026 fiscal year. Commercial imports and exports are expected in the early 2030s.
New Zealand, favorable ground for green hydrogen production
New Zealand has abundant geothermal and hydroelectric resources, which the partners identify as ideal for producing green hydrogen on a large scale. MOL states that hydrogen is a clean energy source, emitting no CO2 when combusted. Its potential applications span mobility, industrial sectors—steel and chemistry in particular—as well as co-combustion in thermal power plants.
Japan has a low level of energy self-sufficiency and a still-limited share of renewable energy in its mix, which intensifies its dependence on imports for its future energy needs, according to MOL. The use of imported green hydrogen thus appears as a lever to meet this growing demand. Strong commercial ties between the two countries offer a favorable framework for corridor development. The initiative aims to reduce Japan's carbon emissions and strengthen its energy security.
Commercial imports expected in the early 2030s
The project aims to support Japan's carbon neutrality objectives while fostering the emergence of a new export industry for New Zealand. The studies beginning in 2026 will focus on establishing a supply chain between the two countries. Commercial imports and exports between the two nations are expected in the early 2030s.
