Japanese shipping line Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” Line) has forged an agreement with Air Tiger Express Companies, Inc. (ATEC), a US based logistics service provider, to acquire 51% of ATE's shareholding.

This involves a 26% initial stake, with an option for an additional 25%. "K" LINE Group said it had been pursuing improvements to its Logistics business.

ATEC, headquartered in New York, with offices and agents worldwide, is a leading international freight forwarder and provider of integrated logistics services.

Its major subsidiaries are, Air Tiger Express (USA) Inc., Air Tiger Express (Asia) Inc. and Shenzhen Airport ATE Intl Freight Co., Ltd. ATEC, though medium-sized with around 750 staff, is a promising company with its strong link to the fast-growing international logistics market in China.

"K" LINE's current international logistics business mainly consists of "K" LINE Logistics. Its major business is air and ocean freight forwarding and Century Distribution Service.

The shipping company believes that capital participation in ATEC will bring both enhancement of business area and profit opportunity.