Kyushu Oil to upgrade fuel berth to boost exports

Kyushu Oil Co. Ltd. said it would invest about ¥1 billion (US$8.7 million) to upgrade its jet fuel and gas oil loading berth at its Oita refinery in southwestern Japan. A company spokeswoman said the move was in line with its plan to gradually increase its share of exports. Many Japanese refiners are boosting sea shipments, aiming to capitalize on growing global demand. Kyushu’s exports are mainly targeted at the United States, Singapore, the Netherlands and South Korea, the spokeswoman added. The company will boost the loading processing capacity for large vessels to 1,500 kiloliters (about 9,400 barrels) per hour from 800 kiloliters (about 5,000 barrels) per hour. Kyushu will also build a new loading berth for small vessels. The upgraded facilities will go into operation after construction is completed in June 2008. (August 31, 2007)