Nishitetsu chooses Istanbul to accelerate its regional expansion

Japan-based logistics and transportation company Nishi-Nippon Railroad Co. (Nishitetsu) will open a representative office in Istanbul as part of its strategy to expand its international logistics network, viewing Türkiye as a key hub connecting Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The company said its new office, located in Istanbul's Yenibosna district with convenient access to Istanbul Airport, will begin operations on June 15. Initially, it will be staffed by one Japanese representative and one local employee. The Istanbul office will focus on strengthening ties with local agents, developing sales activities for cargo owners and conducting market research to identify new business opportunities across Europe and the Middle East.

Türkiye seen as strategic logistics gateway

Nishitetsu President Koichi Hayashida said Türkiye's geographic position linking Europe and Asia, along with its role as a gateway to the Middle East and Africa, makes it strategically important despite rising geopolitical risks. “The international logistics business is a contest of scale. Considering recent geopolitical risks, having a base in Türkiye, as the gateway to the Middle East and Africa and connecting Europe and Asia, is significant,” Hayashida said at a press conference on June 12.

The company views the Istanbul office as a critical step not only for expanding in the Turkish market but also for strengthening its logistics network across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Part of broader international expansion

In addition to its railway and bus operations in Japan, Nishitetsu operates as an international freight forwarder, providing export, import, customs clearance and transportation services.

The company currently maintains 119 logistics locations across 27 countries and regions. Under its three-year management plan ending in March 2029, Nishitetsu aims to expand cargo volumes in five priority sectors, including semiconductors, automotive and apparel.

The Istanbul office is expected to play a central role in reinforcing logistics links across Europe, the Middle East and Asia while supporting the company's broader international growth strategy.

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Source : Türkiye Today, June 13, 2026.